The debate often boils down to a lack of familiarity with Rosenior's profile compared to the "super-managers" of Chelsea's past, such as Jose Mourinho or Thomas Tuchel. As a domestic coach carving a new path, Rosenior faces a unique set of prejudices regarding his pedigree.
Rooney pointed out that the perception of him "acting" is likely a byproduct of the public trying to reconcile his playing career at mid-table clubs with his new status as a leader of a European giant.
"That’s the thing with Liam, you know him, but you don’t know him," he added. "You know his name, you know he’s played for Hull City and Brighton & Hove Albion and teams like that, so he’s had a career in England. So now fans are looking at him saying, ‘Is he putting this on, is he trying to be the big man?’ He is being himself."