Birmingham City co-owner Tom Wagner has outlined a clear and ambitious roadmap to take the newly-promoted side all the way to the Premier League.
Speaking ahead of the EFL Trophy final, Wagner laid out a four-point strategy to secure long-term success, insisting the club must build a winning culture, implement robust processes, grow commercial revenue, and strengthen fan engagement if they are to reach the top flight.
The comments come after a stunning League One campaign under Chris Davies, with the Blues already promoted and in buoyant mood despite falling short in the cup final against Peterborough. The likes of Jay Stansfield and Alfie May have led the charge on the pitch, while Tom Brady’s influence behind the scenes has also drawn praise.
Premier League Target in Sight
Wagner made it clear that the club’s ambitions don’t stop at the Championship, stating bluntly that their “ultimate objective” is to reach the Premier League.
“There’s only one place to go and our ultimate objective is to get to the Premier League… I always say if you can’t say it you can’t do it.”
The Blues co-owner stressed the importance of building a strong infrastructure, from commercial models to creating an engaged fanbase. Wagner highlighted the club’s immense support at Wembley, noting that demand far exceeded the stadium’s capacity.
“We could have filled Wembley,” he said. “That speaks volumes for how big this club is.”
With Birmingham reportedly preparing for significant spending this summer, Championship rivals are already wary of their arrival. Having observed Ipswich Town’s remarkable rise from League One to the Premier League in just two seasons, Birmingham’s owners will be hoping to follow a similar blueprint.
Only five teams have secured back-to-back promotions in recent history – a feat Birmingham are eager to replicate. Links with Premier League talent suggest they’re not planning to tread water in the second tier.
Writer’s View
Wagner’s comments show a level of intent rarely seen from newly-promoted sides. By focusing on infrastructure and supporter culture, he’s clearly planning beyond short-term results. With solid foundations in place and ambitious owners at the helm, Birmingham’s resurgence has real potential – but translating vision into promotion will be the true test.
