Former England and Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney had a glorious career as a player representing Everton, Manchester United, and DC United in his last stint before announcing his retirement as a professional player.
Last year, he made his way back to the MLS side DC United from Derby County, but this time in the new role of their head coach. However, he has parted ways with the club after missing the playoffs.
Rooney parts ways with MLS outfit
DC United failed to reach the play-off round as they wrapped up their league stage with 40 points in a total of 34 games in the Eastern Conference of MLS, alongside Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami who are second in the same table.
Despite sitting in the 9th position, DC United is being eliminated as the other clubs behind them have a handful of games in hand to play. Thus, it is confirmed that Wayne Rooney’s side had no hope alive for making it to the playoffs.
The former Manchester United star reached a mutual agreement with the Washington-based club to terminate his contract in order to part ways. The Washington club made an official announcement to inform the fans regarding the termination of the Head coach.
In the club announcement, Jason Levien, co-chairman and CEO of the D.C. United, said: “We have spoken with Wayne and agreed it is best for us to part ways at this time. This decision creates the avenue for our next General Manager to have the full opportunity to impart a new philosophy and structure onto our sporting operations, which begins with the critical identification of a Head Coach who will best align with this,.
He further added, “We are grateful to Wayne Rooney for all he has done for our club and for soccer in the Nation’s Capital, first as a D.C. United player and captain and most recently as our coach. He remains an important part of the D.C. United family and a valued and cherished friend.” in the statement.
Rooney’s coaching career at the Washington-based club
In July 2022, Wayne Rooney was appointed as the head coach of D.C. United following his two-season stint at Derby County in the English Championship. In his brief managerial career, he had only managed Derby County.
Even though the club failed to qualify for the MLS playoffs, he significantly improved the club’s points tally during his tenure of just one full season. DC United finished last in the table the previous season with only 27 points. However, this season, they managed to accumulate 40 points, falling just short of advancing to the next round.
Going forward, where do you think Rooney’s coaching destination lies next? Make sure to tell us in the comments.
