The former Gunner has accepted the position of lead under-15s academy coach at Birmingham City, marking a return to the club where he enjoyed a successful spell as a player.
Gray’s time at Arsenal as a first-team player was brief, making a single senior appearance as a substitute in 2000 but his connection to the club runs deep. He came through the ranks of Arsenal’s academy, joining at the age of seven and honing his skills under the watchful eye of legendary manager Arsene Wenger
His impact on the club’s academy has been significant, particularly in his three-year stint as assistant coach to the under-18s.
In his own words, Gray credits Wenger for shaping his analytical and strategic thinking: “It was at Arsenal FC, under the guidance of Arsene Wenger where my ability to think analytically and perform strategically was recognised, refined and further developed.”
This experience, coupled with his extensive playing career, has equipped Gray with a unique perspective that he will undoubtedly bring to his new role at Birmingham.
Gray’s move to Birmingham highlights the club’s ambition to regain Category One Academy status. His UEFA A licence qualification, essential for coaching at a professional level, underscores his commitment to a career in coaching after a playing career that also took him to Crystal Palace, Walsall, Coventry, Cardiff, Barnsley and Fulham.
