Birmingham City have appointed former Manchester United executive John Murtough as their new Director of Football, replacing Craig Gardner at St. Andrew’s. Murtough brings extensive leadership experience to the club, having previously served in executive roles at Everton, Manchester United, and Italian side Atalanta BC. His arrival aligns with owner Knighthead’s vision to modernize the club’s football strategy and secure a long-term return to the Premier League.

Murtough built a prominent reputation during his decade at Manchester United, where he initially joined as Academy Manager in late 2013 before being promoted to Director of Development in 2016 and ultimately becoming the club’s Football Director in March 2021. After departing Old Trafford in April 2024, he served as Director of Development at Serie A side Atalanta before accepting the top operational role at Birmingham City.

In his new position at St. Andrew’s, Murtough will oversee squad planning, recruitment, and overarching football operations. With Birmingham seeking sustained momentum and competitive growth, Murtough’s extensive background in academy integration and transfer strategy is expected to play a central role in guiding the Blues’ ongoing rebuild.