Tom Wagner’s striking 205-word message upon Birmingham City takeover completion

Birmingham City’s takeover has officially been approved after months waiting for approval, it was announced by the club on Thursday afternoon.

It was unveiled ahead of the final game of the 2022/23 season, against Sheffield United, that a takeover had been agreed but it has taken over two months since then for completion.

Blues fans won’t mind, though, as Knighthead Capital Management LLC has now communicated the transaction to take over 45.64% of Birmingham City Plc – as well as all of St Andrew’s stadium – has been put through.

Tom Wagner, Knighthead’s co-founder and co-CEO, is the man who led the process and he will be one of seven board members along with Matthew Alvarez, Andrew Shannahan, Kyle Kneisly, Laura Torrado, Wenqing Zhao and Gannan Zheng.

Speaking of his delight at finally getting the deal over the line, Wagner said: “This is an exciting day for everyone associated with Birmingham City Football Club, especially the fans.

“It marks the beginning of a new chapter. From this moment on everything we do will be focused on improving the experience for our fans and making a positive contribution to growth of the city of Birmingham and how it is viewed around the world.

“We are committed to giving the fans a greater voice. We will add talented professionals to the existing leadership team, experienced in driving transformational change in football and other sports organisations. Continually improve the physical infrastructure of the Club. Create new and exciting commercial relationships, leveraging global businesses that Knighthead is connected to. Invest in both the men’s and women’s teams, with young local talent given the opportunity to shine. And always be a positive force in the local community.

“The transition and implementation plans will take time, but we believe that we will earn Birmingham City fans trust and support.

“Our goal is to put in place the building blocks for success so that Birmingham has a club, bearing its name, which is globally respected. The future of Birmingham City is in good and safe hands.

“The potential of this Club is unlimited,” Wagner said to close.