Coming soon The Briev app is almost here. Leave your email and be first in on launch day.

Briev
Live
Sport

Birmingham City manager outlines tactical tweaks aimed at promotion this season

Birmingham City boss Chris Davies says a more direct style and set-piece emphasis could lift the club toward Premier League promotion in 2026-27.

In an interview, Birmingham City manager Chris Davies detailed a strategic pivot toward a more pragmatic, high-pressing approach while retaining the team's ball-control strengths. He highlighted the recruitment of target-man August Priske, winger Carlos Vicente and midfielder Jhon Solis as key to adapting to the Championship's physical demands. The arrival of centre-back Dael Fry and set-piece specialist Scott Fry aims to add defensive solidity and increase goal output from dead-ball situations.

Davies noted the club's surge in season-ticket sales, a waiting list of 14,000 fans, and expanding supporter clubs worldwide, all underscoring the push for Premier League readiness. He believes the blend of direct play, set-piece focus and retained possession skills makes a promotion challenge realistic. The season opens with a Cup win over Swansea, reinforcing confidence in the new tactics.

Why it matters

Birmingham City's tactical overhaul could reshape promotion battles in England's second tier.

In this story

Birmingham CityChris Daviestactical shiftset-piece coachChampionship promotionAugust PriskeDael Fryseason ticketspressing gamedirect play