Wayne Rooney retires from football management
Image Credits: Imago Images
Wayne Rooney and many other Manchester United legends have remained heavily involved in football long after hanging up their boots, whether through coaching, punditry or charity events.
At the end of last month, Wayne Rooney captained England to victory at Soccer Aid, while he has also been part of BBC Sport’s coverage team for the 2026 World Cup.
Now, the Manchester United legend has delivered a major update on his future away from the pitch.
According to BBC Sport, Rooney has admitted that he cannot currently see himself returning to football management after reflecting on his coaching career.
The former England captain made the comments during a Reddit Ask Me Anything session, where he was asked whether he could see himself stepping back into the dugout.
Rooney’s managerial career began at Derby County in 2021 following a successful spell as caretaker manager.
Despite earning praise for his work under difficult circumstances, he left the club in June 2022 after their relegation to League One.
The former United striker then moved to the United States to manage DC United before returning to England with Birmingham City.
However, his spell at St Andrew’s lasted only 83 days, with nine defeats in 15 matches leading to his dismissal.
Rooney opens up on biggest regret
Wayne Rooney revealed that his biggest managerial regret came during his time at Birmingham City.
“I think you always have regrets, and reflect on what I’ve done,” Rooney explained.
“I think the biggest regret I have is the Birmingham City job, in terms of the timing of when I took over from John Eustace.”
After leaving Birmingham, Rooney took charge of Plymouth Argyle, but his final managerial role also proved difficult.
He departed Plymouth by mutual consent after overseeing just four wins in 23 Championship matches.
Focus shifts away from coaching
Earlier this year, Rooney admitted that a return to Manchester United in a coaching role under Michael Carrick would be a “no-brainer”.
However, his latest comments suggest a managerial comeback is now unlikely.
When asked whether he could return to management, Rooney responded: “Probably not.”
While he stopped short of ruling it out entirely, the 40-year-old admitted that where he is mentally at present means he does not currently envisage taking another job in football management.
Instead, Rooney appears set to continue focusing on media work.
His role as part of BBC Sport’s 2026 World Cup coverage represents the latest chapter in his post-playing career.
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