Wayne Rooney: Man United icon makes huge career decision | OneFootball

Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has reportedly made a big career decision ahead of the start of next season.

Managerial tenure

Rooney kick-started his managerial career at Derby County in the Championship, having initially joined as a player-coach. He eventually assumed full control of the club and stepped away from playing duties.

Despite severe off-field issues including administration and a points deduction, Rooney steadied the ship and guided Derby from the relegation zone to safety on the final day of the 2020/21 season. He then resigned in June 2022 amid ongoing financial turmoil at the club, which was eventually relegated.

United’s record goalscorer proceeded to take over the reins at MLS outfit D.C. United, where he had enjoyed a brief stint as a player. His time in the dugout was slightly underwhelming, leading to a departure by mutual consent in 2023.

Rooney then landed a high-profile role as Birmingham City boss, replacing John Eustace. His spell was disastrous as he registered nine losses, four draws and just two wins from the 15 games he oversaw before his sacking after 83 days.

After a period out of work, Rooney was named head coach of Championship side Plymouth Argyle on a three-year deal. Under him, Plymouth endured a long winless run as they sat at the bottom of the table at the midway point. He left Plymouth in December 2021, with the side in deep relegation trouble.

The former England international has since reinvented himself as a pundit and is now one of the most ubiquitous faces in football.

However, according to The Sun, Rooney is planning a return to football management next season.

Career decision

The Sun reveal that Rooney’s ambition to manage again was laid bare during the 40th birthday celebrations of his wife, Coleen.

Rumoured to be earning £400,000 a year as a Match of the Day pundit for the BBC, Rooney is keen to get back into the dugout and start afresh after his recent challenging roles.

A source is alleged to have told the newspaper, “Wayne is enjoying his telly work, but he does want to get back into management. He will be open to it if the right opportunity comes up.”

“Ideally, he would get something at the start of the summer so he is in position for the start of the season in August.”

The Sun write that Rooney is eyeing the Championship or League One.

Featured image Richard Heathcote via Getty Images

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