Wayne Rooney's management future in doubt as he lands new permanent job

Wayne Rooney's management future in doubt as he lands new permanent job

Mark Kinyanjui 19:00 - 30.04.2024

Wayne Rooney lands new job, casting his manegerial future in doubt following failed Birmingham, DC United and Derby County jobs

Wayne Rooney's foray into management could potentially be over for good as he embarks on another punditry role with Sky Sports, joining his former Manchester United teammate Gary Neville on 'The Overlap'. 

This decision raises the question of whether we will ever see Rooney back in the manager's dugout again.

Rooney's managerial career has been marred by a series of setbacks and disappointments. His tenure at Birmingham City lasted a mere 83 days, during which he managed just two wins out of 15 games. 

Birmingham's slide from sixth to 20th in the Championship was a bruising experience for Rooney, prompting him to take a step back from coaching.

Despite receiving praise for keeping Derby County in the Championship in 2021, Rooney's fortunes quickly turned sour.

 The following season saw Derby relegated with a massive 21-point deduction, casting doubt on Rooney's managerial capabilities. His subsequent stint at MLS side DC United ended on a sour note, with Rooney departing by mutual consent after failing to reach the playoffs twice.

Rooney's struggles in management mirror those of other former England greats. Frank Lampard, after spells at Derby, Chelsea, and Everton, finds himself out of work, while Steven Gerrard's managerial career hit a snag with his sacking by Aston Villa. 

Ironically, Gerrard's successor, Unai Emery, has thrived in his role. Gerrard, currently managing Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq, was once considered a frontrunner to succeed Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool but now finds himself on a different career trajectory.

At 38 years old, Rooney's future in management remains uncertain. With his recent pivot towards punditry and the challenges he has faced in coaching, it is unclear whether he will be offered another opportunity in the managerial hot seat, especially at a level higher than the Championship.

As Rooney transitions into his new role as a pundit, football fans will undoubtedly ponder what the future holds for the former England international. Whether he will return to management or carve out a successful career in the media remains to be seen, but Rooney's journey continues to captivate and intrigue observers of the beautiful game.

Tags: