Tom Wagner, Birmingham City’s owner, has spoken out following the American’s emotional return to St. Andrew’s @ Knighthead Park earlier this month.

The Blues’ manager had a tragic stroke in February, but returned to B9 for the latest West Midlands derby against Wolverhampton Wanderers after a seven-month absence from the spotlight.

Wagner has been hailed as a saviour by Birmingham fans for the numerous improvements he has implemented both on the pitch and behind the scenes since completing an initial takeover in July 2023, having repeatedly stated that his goal is to return the club to the Premier League.

Blues finished 10th in the Championship last season under Chris Davies, which was the club’s best finish since 2015/16.

So far this season, Davies’ side has been relatively draw-heavy, but they have only lost one of their first seven league games, providing a solid foundation from which to build as the campaign progresses into the key winter months.

Tom Wagner breaks quiet after returning to Birmingham City for the Wolves draw.

Before the aforementioned derby, Wagner attended the 1-1 draw against Stoke City on January 24th, and once it was revealed that the American was beginning his recovery, Blues fans paid tribute to their chairman in February’s FA Cup fourth round match against Leeds United.

However, he returned for the tense 2-2 draw against Cesar Peixoto’s side, and club-record signing Jay Stansfield was seen choking back tears when asked about his relationship with Wagner.

Birmingham conducted their latest ‘open house’ event on Thursday, which Wagner would usually have attended to convey his current thoughts and future vision for all club developments.

While informing followers that he would be unable to attend, the owner’s whole Instagram message was filled with emotion.

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“It was incredibly special to be back at St. Andrew’s and with the Blues,” Wagner added.I’d want to thank every single fan for the warm welcome I received, as well as the messages of love and encouragement you’ve sent my way in recent months. I cannot express how much it means to me.Being back at St. Andrew’s, hearing you sing and experiencing the excitement in the stadium, was a tremendous reminder of what makes our club unique.

“BCFC means a lot to me, and my and Knighthead’s commitment to the club and city has never been stronger,” he said.Unfortunately, I will be unable to attend Open House in person, but the Knighthead and Club teams will be present.

I will be with you all in spirit and follow closely.There is so much to be thrilled about, both for the Club and for the future that we are creating together. I look forward to seeing you again soon.”

Birmingham City fans reiterate their affection for Tom Wagner following a social media statement.

The club shared Wagner’s letter on social media, and Birmingham fans expressed their continued support for the chairman.Thank you, Tom, for everything you and your colleagues have done and continue to do for our wonderful club; we are eternally grateful. You are truly “one of us”.

We look forward to having you back to St Andrews soon. KRO, “read one response.””KRO Tom, it’s great to see you at Stans; you lift everyone’s spirits,” stated another Bluenose.

With much talk of the future Powerhouse stadium, another fan responded: “Looking forward to seeing TW taking his rightful place and putting the first spade into the ground.”

Another supporter commented on the mood versus Wolves, saying, “The energy was because of you, Tom.” Our King and Saviour. Keep getting stronger; we’ll be waiting for you.

One Aston Villa fan was also able to put rivalry aside for a moment, saying, “Good to see Tom recovering well and still showing passion for his club, he’s a good owner.”

Birmingham City will hope to repay Tom Wagner’s support in the near future.

As previously stated, Wagner’s tight relationship with Birmingham’s supporters, squad, and Davies cannot be overstated, and they want to repay his support in the near future.

Blues hope to move into the 62,000-seater Powerhouse venue by 2031, after first images were released last November. On the pitch, it is clear that the immediate goal is a first Premier League spell in a generation, followed by a push farther up the top-flight table.

Birmingham City’s League Positions Under Knighthead

2023/24

22nd (CH)

2024/25

1st (L1)

2025/26

10th (CH)

The expansion of the Championship play-offs provides an even greater incentive for the club to achieve such goals, and if Davies’ men can maintain their promising start against Middlesbrough before the season’s first international break, it will boost confidence that promotion can be achieved in May.