Wayne Rooney Opens Up About Potential Assistant Manager Roles at Two Clubs

Wayne Rooney has not closed the door on a return to coaching, expressing interest in assistant manager roles at two specific clubs. The Manchester United legend, who has had mixed experiences in his managerial career so far, is keeping his options open for the right opportunity.

Rooney's managerial journey began at Derby County, where he faced a challenging task and ultimately saw the team relegated to League One. His subsequent stint with Major League Soccer's D.C. United was brief, lasting just 83 days. He then took the reins at Birmingham City, but his time there was marked by disappointment. Most recently, Rooney managed Plymouth Argyle for 25 games before parting ways with the club at the end of 2024.

Since then, Rooney has focused on family time and media work, signing a lucrative deal with the BBC's *Match of the Day*. He has also been able to watch his eldest son, Kai, play for Manchester United's youth teams.

In a recent interview with the *No Tippy Tappy Football* podcast, Rooney discussed his willingness to return to coaching. "I would go back if the right opportunity came up. I'm not in a rush," he said.

Pressed on whether he would consider an assistant manager role, Rooney replied, "100% yeah. I got asked this a few weeks ago about whether I'd go back to United in a different role... Of course I would. Probably the only two clubs I'd go back to [not as a manager] are Everton and United because they're the two clubs which are close to my heart."

Rooney's potential return to Old Trafford was previously speculated when Ruben Amorim was relieved of his duties earlier in 2026. Darren Fletcher and Michael Carrick have since taken charge on an interim basis. Rooney, who knows both former United midfielders well, expressed his willingness to join the Red Devils' backroom staff if asked.

Former United defender Wes Brown also believes an emotional return to Manchester United should not be ruled out for Rooney. "When you become a manager, your dream is to manage at a big club," Brown said. "If those opportunities come up, I'm sure anyone would snap your hand off."

Meanwhile, Manchester United is expected to name their next permanent manager in the summer. Carrick has put himself in the conversation for a full-time role, but the club may seek a more experienced candidate to lead their ambitious project.