Van Egmond Excited by Brady’s Birmingham Vision Despite Promotion Heartbreak

BIRMINGHAM, England — Matildas midfielder Emily van Egmond has reaffirmed her commitment to Birmingham City despite the club’s narrow failure to secure promotion to the Women’s Super League, telling reporters the Tom Brady-backed project was too exciting to walk away from.

The 30-year-old Australian international, who joined from San Diego Wave in January, saw her new club miss out on promotion by just two points following a dramatic final-day 2-2 draw with London City Lionesses.

Brady’s Ambitious Project Convinces Van Egmond

“When I was looking for a club in January, Birmingham stood out most,” Van Egmond said. “I had talks with WSL and NWSL clubs, but Birmingham’s ambition was second to none – it was really hard to say no.”

The midfielder highlighted the club’s professional setup and high-profile investors, including NFL legend Tom Brady, who became a minority owner in 2023 through American investment firm Knighthead Capital.

“We’ve got big-time investors like Tom Brady all behind us,” she added. “It’s a very professional club. Next year, hopefully we can seal the deal.”

Rebuilding a Historic Club

Birmingham City, founding members of the WSL, suffered relegation in 2022 after years of underinvestment. The new ownership has:

• Committed to Champions League-level ambitions

• Appointed former England manager Hope Powell as technical director

• Brought in highly-rated coach Amy Merricks

Van Egmond praised the setup: “Working under Amy Merricks, who’s a fantastic coach, with Hope Powell there too – I’m excited. We’ve got a good group and will see more investment coming.”

Growing Competition in Women’s Championship

The Australian international noted the rising standards in England’s second tier:

“The competition is actually quite high now. With Newcastle pouring in tons of investment and Nottingham Forest coming in, these leagues are really taking a stance.”

This comes as Blackburn Rovers withdrew from WSL2, highlighting the growing financial demands in women’s football.

Matildas Camp Brings Champions League Winners

Van Egmond spoke ahead of Australia’s friendlies against Argentina, with Arsenal’s Champions League winners Steph Catley, Caitlin Foord and Kyra Cooney-Cross set to join camp.

“There’ll be a massive positive vibe,” she predicted. “When you come off such a high and represent your country, you automatically feel honored.”