Wayne Rooney Would Consider Managing Only Two Clubs, Admits Potential End to Coaching Career

Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has stated that he would only consider returning to football management for two specific clubs: Everton and Manchester United. However, Rooney also acknowledged that a return to the dugout is unlikely after a series of challenging managerial roles.

In a discussion on Virgin Radio, featured in his new family documentary "The Real Rooneys," Rooney, 40, expressed that while he doubts he will manage again, his only potential return would be "in any capacity" for either Everton, his boyhood club, or Manchester United, where he spent 13 successful years.

Rooney's playing career saw him achieve significant success, particularly with Manchester United, where he became the club's all-time leading scorer with 253 goals in 559 appearances. He later made a return to Everton for a final Premier League stint before retiring as a player in 2021.

When asked which of the two clubs he would accept an offer from first, Rooney humorously responded, "The one that comes first."

Rooney's managerial career has included stints at Derby County, D.C. United, and Birmingham City, with his most recent role at Plymouth Argyle ending by mutual consent in December 2024. These experiences have led him to reflect on his future in coaching.

He suggested that his current role as a pundit, including his work on "Match of the Day," provides him with a sense of purpose. "I'm not doing it for money; I'm doing it for a purpose rather than just being at the house all day," Rooney said in the documentary. He added that there is a possibility he will never manage again and is focused on learning and improving in his current media work.

Rooney also recently addressed public commentary on his physical transformation, stating his dedication to weight loss and fitness, which he has been working on diligently in the gym.