Birmingham City FC - 2022 - The Pershing Era

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SETTING THE SCENE - 4

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June 21st 2022 - With the Adidas and Undefeated deals confirmed, the club was starting to see better projection in terms of revenue and with the timeline of the reopening of a full 28,000 capacity St Andrews, the season ticket sales were well up, with over 20,000 sales looking likely.

The club wanted to announce the new Directors of Football of both the Mens and Womens teams as well as the new Academy Directors for both sides also. The importance of announcing the senior football structure was paramount so the club could then get the ball rolling with signings and sales.

 

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**PRESS RELEASE​

Birmingham City FC Announces New Senior Football Leadership Team**

Birmingham, UK – 22nd June 2022 – Birmingham City Football Club is proud to unveil its newly structured Senior Football Department, a major step in delivering the Club’s long-term “Vision 2030” strategy and strengthening football operations across the Men’s, Women’s, and Academy pathways.

Following months of planning under the Club’s new ownership, this restructuring represents a clear commitment to elite performance, youth development, and a unified football identity across every level of Birmingham City.

Key Appointments​

Craig Gardner – Director of Football (Men’s First Team)​

Former Blues midfielder and highly respected football operator Craig Gardner has been appointed Director of Football for the Men’s First Team. Gardner will oversee all senior recruitment, performance strategy, and long-term squad planning, working closely with the Head Coach and the Board.

“Craig embodies what this Club stands for — ambition, hard work, and a deep understanding of Birmingham City. His leadership is vital as we enter a new era.” – Neils DeVos, Chairman

Sarah Westwood – Director of Football (Women’s First Team)​

Birmingham City is delighted to welcome Sarah Westwood, one of the most forward-thinking leaders in the women’s game, as Director of Football for the Women’s First Team. Westwood will lead recruitment, development strategy, and professional standards within the Women’s programme.

“Sarah’s reputation for excellence, innovation, and building competitive structures makes her the perfect appointment as we invest significantly in our Women’s team.” – Jeremy Dale, CEO

Academy Leadership​

Mike Rigg – Academy Director (Men’s Pathway)​

With a career spanning senior roles at the FA, Manchester City, Fulham, and Sheffield Wednesday, Mike Rigg joins the Club as Academy Director – Men’s Pathway. Rigg will oversee the full youth performance model, from U9s through to the Elite Development Squad.

He will lead the Club’s ambitious plan to create the most heavily funded youth academy in the country, ensuring the next generation of Birmingham talent becomes central to the First Team.

Hope Powell – Academy Director (Women’s Pathway)​

Legendary former England Women’s manager Hope Powell joins Birmingham City as Academy Director – Women’s Pathway. Powell will develop a best-in-class talent pipeline, overseeing coaching, education, player welfare, and competitive progression for all age groups.

“Hope Powell’s impact on English football is undeniable. Her expertise elevates our Women’s Academy to one of the most significant projects anywhere in the UK.” – Garry Cook, Non-Executive Director

A Unified Football Identity​

This restructuring is designed to ensure:

• Complete alignment from Academy to First Team
• A shared football philosophy across Men’s and Women’s programmes
• Strong pathways for youth players to progress into senior football
• Elite recruitment and development infrastructures
• A modernised, professional, and ambitious operational model

Club Statement​

“Today marks another major step in building the foundations for sustainable success. Our new Senior Football Team brings together industry-leading expertise and a collective vision aligned with our long-term strategy. Birmingham City is rebuilding with purpose, professionalism, and clarity. This is the beginning of a new football identity for our Club.”
— The Board of Birmingham City Football Club

 

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SETTING THE SCENE - 5
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The Summer of 2022 transfer wise was one of balancing the books. Unfortunately, this meant more outgoings than incomings. The club knew they had a few players on big contracts that were finally coming to an end. It just meant one more year of the high earners on the squad list and that 2023 would be the Summer when real change could start to be seen.

Where needed, the squad needed to be trimmed down with players on the fringes moved on.

The club accepted that it was in there best interest to not loan players out and if needs be, release players on frees to gain some money from wages.

SUMMER 2022 OUTGOINGS

DATE	PLAYER	CLUB	FEE
15th June 2022	Kyle Hurst	Doncaster	FREE
20th June 2022	Ryan Woods	Hull	FREE
21st June 2022	Odin Bailey	Salford	FREE
21st June 2022	Jon Leko	MK Dons	FREE
1st July 2022	Ivan Sunjic	Hertha Berlin	FREE
3rd July 2022	Sam Cosgrove	Plymouth	FREE
5th July 2022	Mitch Roberts	Oldham	FREE
10th July 2022	Marcel Oakley	Arbroath	FREE
15th July 2022	Adan George	York City	FREE

 

[PWC2017]

**PRESS RELEASE​

Birmingham City FC Confirms New Training Ground Strategy for First Team, Women’s, and Academy Squads**

Birmingham, UK – 28th June 2022 – Birmingham City Football Club is pleased to announce a major update to the Club’s long-term infrastructure plan, confirming that the Men’s First Team will relocate to the EPICS Training Centre in Henley-in-Arden, while the Women’s First Team and both Men’s and Women’s Academy programmes will remain at Wast Hills Training Ground until at least 2030.

This decision forms a key part of the Club’s Vision 2030 strategy, aimed at modernising performance facilities and creating clearly defined pathways across all levels of the football programme.

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Men’s First Team Move to EPICS Training Centre​

Beginning in the 2022/23 season, the Men’s First Team will officially move their full-time operations to the EPICS Training Centre, providing players and staff with a state-of-the-art high-performance environment.

The facility offers:

• Elite-level indoor and outdoor training pitches
• Modern medical, recovery, and rehabilitation suites
• Data and performance analysis rooms
• Upgraded gym and conditioning equipment
• Enhanced player meeting and tactical preparation areas

Craig Gardner, Director of Football (Men) said:
“EPICS offers a Premier League–level training environment and gives the First Team everything required to compete at the highest standards. This is a massive step forward for the Club.”

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Wast Hills Confirmed as Long-Term Home for Women’s and Academy Football​

The Club can confirm that Wast Hills will remain the dedicated base for:

• Women’s First Team
• Men’s Academy (all age groups)
• Women’s Academy (all age groups)

This commitment runs through to 2030, aligning with the Club’s plan to make Birmingham City’s youth and women’s structures the most advanced and best-resourced in the country.

Significant investment will be made into Wast Hills over the next eight years, including:

• Pitch redevelopment and performance surface upgrades
• Expanded coaching and analysis facilities
• Enhanced gym, medical, and sports science equipment
• Modernised classrooms and education spaces
• New safeguarding, welfare, and player accommodation areas

Sarah Westwood, Director of Football (Women) commented:
“Wast Hills will become a centre of excellence for women’s football in the Midlands. This is a long-term commitment to building something sustainable and world-class.”

Mike Rigg, Academy Director (Men) added:
“Our priority is development, identity, and pathway. This investment ensures we can nurture the next generation of Birmingham City players in the best possible environment.”

Hope Powell, Academy Director (Women) said:
“This sets the foundations for elite development. It is a statement about what Birmingham City wants to become – a leader in youth football across the UK.”

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Club Statement​

“This training ground strategy gives us clarity, direction, and excellence across every department. With EPICS serving the First Team and Wast Hills becoming a hub of youth and women’s development, Birmingham City now has the correct infrastructure to support our Vision 2030 ambitions.”
— The Board of Birmingham City Football Club

 

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Mens First Team - Squad List - June/July 2022

No	Player	Nation	Position	Age	Signed	Contract Ends	Signed From	FEE
1	Neil Etheridge		GK	32	2020	2023	Cardiff	£1M
38	Zach Jeacock		GK	20	YOUTH	2023	YOUTH	N/A
2	Maxime Colin		RB	31	2017	2023	Brentford	£2M
3	George Friend		LB/CB	35	2020	2023	Middlesborough	FREE
4	Marc Roberts		CB	32	2017	2023	Barnsley	£3.5M
12	Harlee Dean		CB	31	2017	2023	Brentford	£2M
7	Juninho Bacuna		CM/RW	25	2022	2026	Rangers	£400K
11	Jordan Graham		LW/RW	27	2021	2023	Gillingham	FREE
19	Jordan James		CM/AM	18	YOUTH	2025	YOUTH	N/A
27	Jobe Bellingham		AM/FW	17	YOUTH	2025	YOUTH	N/A
35	George Hall		AM	18	YOUTH	2025	YOUTH	N/A
42	Alfie Chang		CM	19	YOUTH	2025	YOUTH	N/A
45	Romelle Donovan		RW/LW	16	YOUTH	2025	YOUTH	N/A
8	Troy Deeney		ST	34	2021	2023	Watford	FREE
9	Scott Hogan		ST	30	2020	2024	Aston Villa	£1M
10	Lukas Jutkiewicz		ST	33	2016	2023	Burnley	£1M

 

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SETTING THE SCENE - 6

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The squad was down to the bare bones. The club knew they needed to add to the squad but with FFP and P&S issues it meant it was going to be the Free Agent market they would be shopping in. The the way the club had been run for the 10 years prior with a lack of real revenue ideas and some dreadful decisions in the transfer market. Most of those players were still in the squad but there contracts were ending in 2023. DeVos would come out to local media in an interview with RadioWM making it clear the 2022/2023 season would be a touch one due to these financial constraints. He admitted if the club got through this season things would and could become much better in the coming years.

 

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**RADIO WM – EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW​

Birmingham City Chairman Niels De Vos
Broadcast: 29th June 2022


Presenter – Richard Wilford (RW)
Chairman – Niels De Vos (NDV)

RW:​

Niels, thank you for joining us. There’s been a lot of discussion among supporters about the financial picture you inherited when Pershing Square took control. Can you give us some clarity?

NDV:​

Absolutely, Richard, and thank you for having me on. I think honesty is important here. When we came into the football club, it was very clear that the previous years of financial management had left Birmingham City in a difficult position, particularly regarding FFP and Profit & Sustainability regulations.


We inherited a club that, to put it plainly, had been living beyond its means. There were contracts that were unsustainable, revenue streams that had not been maximised, and legacy costs that needed addressing.


We’ve spent the last few months fully understanding the situation and putting proper controls and structures in place.

RW:​

Some fans worry that these FFP restrictions will limit what you can do in the short term. Is that the case?

NDV:​

In the short term, yes, we do have restraints. That’s the reality. We cannot escape the consequences of what happened before we arrived. We have to operate responsibly, and that means there are limits to what we can spend this season.


But I want to be clear — this is a temporary phase, not a long-term obstacle.

RW:​

So what are you doing now to resolve those issues?

NDV:​

Pershing Square came in with a plan from day one. We have:

• Stabilised the club financially
• Reduced unnecessary expenditure
• Rebuilt commercial structures
• Put in place strong financial governance and long-term planning
• Secured major new partnerships such as adidas Spezial and UNDEFEATED
• Begun work on improving matchday, media, and retail revenue streams

This is all part of a bigger picture: resetting the club so that it can grow sustainably.

RW:​

You’ve hinted at new revenue streams before. What impact will these have on the club moving forward?

NDV:​

The partnerships we’ve put in place and the commercial plans we’re building will dramatically improve the club’s financial health.


From 2023 onwards, supporters will begin to see the real impact of this. That’s when:

• Our new commercial deals kick in fully
• Redevelopment work at St Andrew’s begins to pay back
• Operational efficiencies start showing results
• Long-term strategic investments in the Academy and infrastructure start driving value

It’s important to stress: 2022 is about stabilisation. 2023 is about building. 2024 and beyond is where we aim to thrive.

RW:​

So fans listening tonight—what should they take from your message?

NDV:​

That we are absolutely committed to Birmingham City for the long term. We know the club has been through years of uncertainty and mismanagement.


But I can promise supporters this:


We will run Birmingham City properly, professionally, and in a way that protects the future of the club.


Yes, we are restricted right now. But the work we are doing today ensures that a year from now, two years from now, Birmingham City will be in the strongest position it’s been in for a very long time — both on and off the pitch.

RW:​

Niels, thank you for your time.

NDV:​

Thank you, Richard. And thank you to the supporters — this rebuild is for them.

 

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SETTING THE SCENE - 7

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The incomings were going to come from the free agent market and Director of Football Craig Gardner knew the profile of player that was required and the type of player Pershing wanted the club to sign. It was difficult with the constraints but the club were able to bring a few new players to freshen up the squad. Although there were financial issues, the club did show ambition beating Premier League clubs for the signature of one player especially.

SUMMER 2022 INCOMINGS

DATE	PLAYER	CLUB	FEE
1st July 2022	Ryan Allsop	Cardiff	FREE
2nd July 2022	Jake Clark-Salter	Chelsea	FREE
5th July 2022	Josh Laurent	Reading	FREE
7th July 2022	CJ Egan-Reilly	Manchester City	FREE
7th July 2022	Victor Adeboyejo	Barnsley	FREE
10th July 2022	Brandon Thomas-Asante	Salford	£450,000

 

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BIRMINGHAM CITY FC – SUMMER TRANSFER WINDOW BREAKDOWN (2022/23)​

Incoming Transfers – July 2022

Below is a complete breakdown of Birmingham City’s confirmed signings during the opening weeks of the 2022 summer window, aligned with the Club’s new recruitment strategy under Pershing Square ownership.

1 July 2022​

Ryan Allsop – Goalkeeper​

From: Cardiff City
Fee: Free Transfer
Contract: 2-year deal

Overview:
An experienced Championship-level goalkeeper, Allsop arrives to provide immediate competition in the senior goalkeeping department. His distribution and leadership were key factors identified by the recruitment team.

2 July 2022​

Jake Clarke-Salter – Centre-Back​

From: Chelsea
Fee: Free Transfer
Contract: 3-year deal

Overview:
A highly regarded ball-playing defender with Championship experience, Clarke-Salter becomes a long-term addition to strengthen the club’s defensive identity. His arrival aligns with the Club’s desire for younger, technically capable domestic talent.

5 July 2022​

Josh Laurent – Central Midfielder​

From: Reading
Fee: Free Transfer
Contract: 3-year deal

Overview:
Powerful, dynamic, and versatile, Laurent provides physical presence and passing range in midfield. His leadership qualities and Championship experience make him a major component of the club’s rebuild in the centre of the pitch.

7 July 2022​

CJ Egan-Riley – Defender / Midfielder​

From: Manchester City
Fee: Free Transfer
Contract: 3-year deal

Overview:
A product of Manchester City’s elite youth system, Egan-Riley joins as part of the Club’s long-term strategy to recruit promising British talent. Comfortable at right-back, centre-back, or holding midfield, he adds tactical flexibility to the squad.

7 July 2022​

Victor Adeboyejo – Striker​

From: Barnsley
Fee: Free Transfer
Contract: 3-year deal

Overview:
Adeboyejo arrives following a strong season in the Championship with Barnsley. His physicality, work rate, and pressing style suit Birmingham City’s shift toward high-intensity, front-foot football. Seen as a developmental forward with strong upside.

10 July 2022​

Brandon Thomas-Asante – Forward​

From: Salford City
Fee: £450,000
Contract: 3-year deal

Overview:
An exciting attacking talent who has excelled in League Two, Thomas-Asante becomes one of the Club’s key investment signings. His pace, dribbling, and direct style add unpredictability to the frontline. The £450k fee represents value and long-term potential.

Summary of Expenditure​

• Free Transfers: 5
• Transfer Fees Paid: £450,000
• Total Summer Spend (to date): £450,000

This recruitment approach reflects the Club’s financial discipline under FFP/Profit & Sustainability constraints while still delivering dynamic, UK-based talent to reinforce the First Team.

 

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**Birmingham City FC – First XI Breakdown (2022/23)​

Manager: John Eustace
Formation: 4-3-3**

Below is the projected first-choice XI under John Eustace following the Pershing Square rebuild and summer transfer activity.

⚽ Goalkeeper​

Ryan Allsop​

Role: Sweeper Keeper / Distributor
Allsop’s arrival adds assurance with the ball at his feet and calm decision-making in possession. He initiates attacks with quick releases, helping BCFC transition into Eustace’s front-foot, possession-based model.

Back Four​

Right-Back – Maxime Colin​

Role: Overlapping Full-Back
Colin provides width, experience, and composure. His intelligent forward runs help stretch play, while his 1v1 defending remains one of his strongest attributes.

Centre-Back – CJ Egan-Riley​

Role: Ball-Playing Centre-Back
Technically excellent and tactically versatile, Egan-Riley brings composure in tight areas and strong progression from the back line. Comfortable stepping into midfield when required.

Centre-Back – Jake Clarke-Salter​

Role: Left-Sided Centre-Back
Secure in possession and assertive in duels, Clarke-Salter anchors the defence. His ability to play out from the back suits Eustace’s structured build-up play.

Left-Back – George Friend​

Role: Defensive Full-Back / Secondary Centre-Back
Experienced, disciplined, and positionally aware. Friend’s defensive stability balances Colin’s attacking freedom down the right.

Midfield Trio​

Jordan James – Right Central Midfield​

Role: Box-to-Box Controller
A key academy product and central to the Club’s youth-first philosophy. James provides energy, press resistance, and forward movement from midfield.

Josh Laurent – Defensive Midfield (No. 6)​

Role: Ball-Winning Shield / Distributor
Powerful, athletic, and composed, Laurent is the anchor of the midfield. Breaks up play, protects the centre-backs, and distributes quickly to transition into attack.

Jobe Bellingham – Left Central Midfield​

Role: Creative Link / Advanced Playmaker
Technically gifted and tactically intelligent beyond his years. Operates between the lines, carries the ball, and connects midfield to attack. A central figure in the “youth to first team” philosophy.

Front Three​

Right Wing – Brandon Thomas-Asante​

Role: Direct Inside Forward
Aggressive, fast, and dangerous in 1v1s. Makes diagonal runs into the box and creates space for overlapping full-backs. Provides unpredictability and goals.

Centre Forward – Victor Adeboyejo​

Role: Pressing Striker / Target Forward
Strong, determined, and relentless in the press. Adeboyejo leads from the front, holds up play, and brings midfielders into attacking sequences. Key to Eustace’s high-energy style.

Left Wing – Juninho Bacuna​

Role: Creative Wide Playmaker
Technically gifted with vision and flair. Cuts inside to create overloads, finds pockets of space, and links play in the final third. Also provides set-piece quality.

Tactical Summary – Eustace’s 4-3-3​

• High pressing front three led by Adeboyejo
• Flexible midfield with Laurent anchoring and two dynamic 8s (James & Jobe)
• Ball-playing defensive structure through Egan-Riley and Clarke-Salter
• Width on the right, stability on the left
• Youth integration central to the identity: Jobe, James, and Egan-Riley core to the system
• Fast transitions and compact defensive shape in the middle third

This XI represents a blend of energetic young talent, domestic-focused recruitment, and a clear tactical identity aligned with Vision 2030.

 

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**PRESS RELEASE**​

Birmingham City FC Confirm Major Investment in B-Team and C-Team Structure**
Date: 1st July 2022


Birmingham City Football Club is proud to confirm a significant restructuring and investment into the Club’s B-Team (U21) and C-Team (U18) programmes, marking a major milestone in the implementation of the Club’s long-term Vision 2030 strategy.


Following the takeover by Pershing Square Management, the development of a world-leading youth pathway has been placed at the centre of the Club's footballing philosophy, forming the backbone of future recruitment, sustainability, and on-pitch identity.

A New Era for Youth Development at Birmingham City​

The newly enhanced B-Team and C-Team model represents a complete overhaul of the Club’s youth structure, combining elite-level facilities, increased coaching resources, and a unified developmental philosophy across all age groups.


This investment includes:

• Upgraded performance analysis technology
• Expansion of sports science and medical departments
• New coaching staff appointments
• Improved indoor and outdoor training facilities
• Additional welfare, education, and safeguarding infrastructure

The Club’s objective is clear:
To build the most advanced, best-funded youth development system in British football.

Structure & Philosophy​

B-Team (U21)​

• Comprised of players up to age 18, competing at a high-development, pre-first-team level
• Mirrors the tactical principles of the Men’s First Team
• Acts as the final technical and physical preparation before loan spells
• Enhanced programme includes individual development plans for every player

C-Team (U18)​

• Comprised of players up to age 16, focused on technical mastery, football intelligence, and early professional standards
• Increased contact hours and advanced positional coaching
• Integration of data-led development analysis

Post-18 Pathway​

In alignment with the Club’s long-term plan:

• Once players reach age 18, they will be sent on strategic loan placements for senior experience
• Players not retained will be sold with a long-term sign-back or sell-on clause, protecting the Club’s investment and future interests
• Only elite prospects progressing rapidly through the pathway will be considered for accelerated movement into senior squads

This model creates a sustainable development cycle and ensures the Club maintains influence over every emerging talent.

June–July 2022 Recruitment​

Alongside infrastructure upgrades, the Club has completed a number of targeted youth signings throughout June and July 2022 for both the B-Team and C-Team, prioritising UK and Irish talent in line with the Club’s recruitment philosophy.

Youth recruitment this summer focused on:

• Highly technical profiles
• Athletes suited to modern, possession-based football
• Players with strong developmental ceilings
• Individuals identified through data-driven scouting and internal academy benchmarking

Full details of individual recruitments will be announced in dedicated team updates.

Club Leadership Comments​

Mike Rigg – Academy Director (Men)​

“This is the most ambitious youth development project I’ve ever been part of. The investment in facilities, staffing, and pathway design sets Birmingham City apart from most clubs in the UK. Our B-Team and C-Team will become production lines for elite-level talent.”

Hope Powell – Academy Director (Women)​

“Although these announcements relate to the men’s pathway, the overall uplift in infrastructure benefits the entire club. We are building a high-performance culture that will be shared across all age groups and all programmes.”

Niels De Vos – Chairman​

“Our ownership group made a commitment from day one: the academy will be the heart of Birmingham City. Today is a statement of intent. We are investing in young people, in the region, and in the future of this football club.”

A Clear Pathway for the Next Generation​

With increased funding, improved facilities, and a world-class development model, Birmingham City FC is positioning itself as a destination club for young talent across the UK and Ireland.


The Club will continue to provide ongoing updates as new staff, players, and structural advancements are finalised throughout the 2022/23 season.

 

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**PRESS RELEASE​

Birmingham City FC Announces New Era of Away Kits and Modern Third Shirt Strategy**
Date: 2nd July 2022

Birmingham City Football Club is delighted to announce a bold new direction for the Club’s kit identity, confirming the launch of a new generation of away kits and the introduction of a modernised third-shirt policy for the 2022/23 season and beyond.

Following extensive consultation between the Club’s senior leadership, technical partner adidas SPEZIAL, and supporter groups, the Club has committed to a refreshed identity that pays tribute to Birmingham City’s heritage while establishing a distinctive look for the Pershing Square era.

A New Era: Yellow, White & Blue Away Kits​

Beginning with the 2022/23 season, Birmingham City’s away kits will adopt a permanent design philosophy, with all future away shirts following a consistent yellow / white / blue colour tradition.

This new identity will feature:

• A primary yellow base, paying homage to classic Blues away strips
• White detailing to provide a sharp, modern contrast
• Royal and navy blue accents, maintaining the club’s iconic colour roots
• Design language inspired by both Birmingham’s industrial heritage and adidas Spezial’s retro-modern aesthetic

This decision establishes a recognisable, cohesive away-kit identity for years to come, strengthening the visual brand of Birmingham City both domestically and internationally.

Modern Classic Design Philosophy​

Together with adidas Spezial, the Club has agreed on a creative direction described as “Modern Classics”:

• Clean, bold shapes
• Subtle texture and pattern work
• Retro cues reimagined with contemporary tailoring
• Lightweight performance materials
• Iconic Spezial trim styles on collars and cuffs

Every away kit during the partnership will follow this design DNA, ensuring a timeless look that becomes synonymous with the new era of the Club.

Third Shirt Strategy for Cup Competitions​

Birmingham City can also confirm that, following successful consultation with the FA, the Club will adopt a dedicated Third Shirt to be worn exclusively during FA Cup, EFL Cup, and other Cup competitions, where kit clashes occur.

Features of the new third-shirt policy include:

• Distinct colour palettes not used in home or away kits
• Designs aligned with Spezial’s premium fashion-inspired themes
• Limited-run production to maintain exclusivity
• Kit availability for supporters tied to cup fixture windows

This strategy ensures maximum flexibility for competition rules while reinforcing the club’s brand identity in high-profile cup fixtures.

Club Leadership Comments​

Jeremy Dale – CEO​

“We want our kits to represent who we are and who we are becoming. This new away-kit identity provides timelessness, consistency, and a visual brand that will carry Birmingham City into the next decade.”

Niels De Vos – Chairman​

“Our partnership with adidas Spezial gives us the perfect platform to create something truly iconic. The yellow, white, and blue identity will become instantly recognisable as Birmingham City’s away colours for a generation.”

adidas Spezial Creative Lead​

“Creating modern classics is what Spezial stands for. Birmingham City’s new direction aligns perfectly with our design philosophy, and supporters can expect some of the most unique kits in the country.”

A Fresh Identity for a New Era​

Birmingham City FC’s commitment to a unified and modern kit strategy is another step under the Vision 2030 framework to build a club with a strong, recognisable, and progressive identity on and off the pitch.

The first kit in this new away-era will be unveiled later this month, with full retail release dates and launch events to be confirmed.

 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
5th July 2022

Pershing Confirms Acquisition of 46 Acres at Wheels Park in East Birmingham to Develop New Sports & Entertainment District Opening in 2030​

Birmingham, UK — July 2022 — Pershing is pleased to confirm the acquisition of 46 acres of prime land at Wheels Park in East Birmingham, advancing its bold ambition to deliver a transformative sports and entertainment district set to open in 2030, in alignment with the region’s broader Vision 2030 development strategy.

The project represents a major investment in the future of East Birmingham, with a masterplan featuring an integrated suite of state-of-the-art facilities, including:

• A new, purpose-built stadium
• A modern elite training ground and performance centre
• A next-generation youth academy complex
• A dedicated academy stadium for development and competitive fixtures
• A multi-use indoor arena designed for sports, entertainment, and community programming

The district will serve as a year-round destination focused on sport, culture, community engagement, and economic growth—bringing new opportunities, infrastructure, and investment to one of Birmingham’s most strategically important areas.

“This acquisition is a foundational step in our long-term vision,” said a Pershing spokesperson. “By aligning with Vision 2030, we are committed to delivering a world-class district that supports talent development, drives local regeneration, and elevates Birmingham as a major hub for sports and entertainment.”

Pershing will continue working closely with Birmingham City Council, planning authorities, and key stakeholders as the development enters detailed planning and design phases.

Further updates, including construction milestones, anchor partners, and community engagement initiatives, will be announced as the project progresses toward its 2030 opening.

 

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MAY 2023

WIKIPEDIA - OVERVIEW OF THE 2022/2023 SEASON.

OWNER	PERSHING SQUARE MANAGEMENT
HEAD COACH	JOHN EUSTACE
STADIUM	ST ANDREWS
CHAMPIONSHIP POSITION	15TH
FA CUP	3RD ROUND
LEAGUE CUP	1ST ROUND
TOP GOALSCORER	BRANDON THOMAS-ASANTE (10 GOALS)
HIGHEST ATTENDANCE	28,005 (VS WEST BROMWICH ALBION - 28th OCTOBER 2022)
LOWEST ATTENDANCE	22,102 (VS SHREWSBURY TOWN - 9th AUGUST 2022)

2022–23 Season Overview​

The 2022–23 season marked another campaign for Birmingham City (under the ownership of Pershing Square Management) competing in the EFL Championship, with John Eustace serving as head coach. Home matches were played at St Andrew’s.

Birmingham City finished 15th in the Championship table. In cup competitions, the club exited the FA Cup in the third round, and were eliminated from the EFL Cup in the first round.

Brandon Thomas-Asante finished the season as the club’s top goalscorer, netting 10 goals in all competitions.

Attendance at St Andrew’s varied throughout the campaign, with the highest attendance recorded at 28,005 for the league fixture against West Bromwich Albion on 28 October 2022. The lowest attendance was 22,102, during the EFL Cup match against Shrewsbury Town on 9 August 2022.