Exclusive: Bright Osayi-Samuel on Birmingham’s Premier League Push, His English Return and Mourinho’s Fenerbahçe Exit

Nigeria international Bright Osayi-Samuel says Birmingham City's target this season is promotion to the Premier League, as he reflects on his return to English football and his time under José Mourinho at Fenerbahçe.

Aiming High After Strong Return

The Blues made an immediate return to the Championship last season, sealing promotion with six games to spare and lifting the League One title with a record 111 points.

That success, combined with significant financial backing, has raised expectations. 

Many pundits have tipped Birmingham to be among the leading contenders for promotion this season.

However, after four Championship fixtures, Chris Davies’ side sit 10th in the table with seven points from two wins, a draw and a defeat. Last weekend’s loss to Leicester City left them five points behind early leaders Middlesbrough.

Birmingham are seeking back-to-back promotions in their bid to return to the Premier League for the first time since 2011, a goal Osayi-Samuel believes is within reach.

"Plain and Simple" Goal

Birmingham City defender Bright Osayi-Samuel says the club’s “plain and simple” objective this season is to win promotion to the Premier League.

“Obviously the Championship is difficult,” Osayi-Samuel told SportsBoom.com.

“Our objective is plain and simple: to get promoted to the Premier League and, of course, to be able to stay there for three or whatever seasons. I’ve seen teams go up and get relegated immediately. Birmingham is a team on the way up.”

New Arrival With Big Ambitions

Osayi-Samuel is one of 12 players signed by Chris Davies during a busy summer transfer window.

The Nigerian international, who was linked with Crystal Palace and Southampton, joined Birmingham as a free agent after leaving Turkish giants Fenerbahçe.

“It has always been my aim to return, but I know some fans are surprised I came back to the Championship,” he added.

“It was the goal and the plan I saw with Birmingham that made me return. I spoke with the owner and saw the plans they have, not just this year, but for two and three years ahead. It is a big project and I’m excited to be part of it.”

Experience Under Mourinho

The 27-year-old brings significant experience to St Andrew’s, having made 178 appearances in four and a half years at Fenerbahçe, where he was coached by José Mourinho before the Portuguese manager’s recent departure.

“I had a nice time under him (Mourinho) and he can be tough. But he’s like a father to us and always telling us great stories about his teams. He’s a great coach and I wish him all the best,” the former QPR man said.