After resigning from his position as manager of the Major League Soccer team DC United, Wayne Rooney has stated his intention to move back to England. After Rooney was unable to lead the Washington club into the postseason, the two parties mutually agreed to split ways.
The former captain of Manchester United signed to DC United in July 2022, shortly after leaving as the manager of Derby County after two years with the Rams. He had been with Derby County for the previous two years. Only 27.5 percent of Rooney’s managing games at both of his clubs have resulted in wins.
The following is an excerpt from a statement issued by DC United: “We have spoken with Wayne and agreed that it is right for us to part ways at this time. This decision paves the way for our future general manager to have the full chance to instill a new philosophy and structure onto our sporting operations. This process starts with the important identification of a head coach who will best align with this philosophy and structure.
“We are grateful to Wayne Rooney for everything he has done for our club and for soccer in the nation’s capital, first as a player and captain for DC United and most recently as our coach. He has made a significant impact on both. He continues to be a treasured and significant member of the DC United family, in addition to being a dear friend.
Rooney stated that “It couldn’t have come at a better moment. I believe that I have exhausted all of the options available to me in an effort to get the team into the playoffs. It’s not just one item that has transpired; rather, it has to do with the timing in your professional life. My time spent in this location has been really enjoyable to me. However, I have the distinct impression that this is the appropriate time to travel back to England. I have no idea what is going to happen in the future.”