Wayne Rooney has been working as a BBC pundit during the World Cup (Image: Getty)
Wayne Rooney would only consider a return to management if presented with an opportunity among Michael Carrick‘s backroom team at Manchester United. The former England international, who is working as a BBC pundit for the World Cup, enjoyed 13 years at Old Trafford and played alongside the newly-appointed permanent boss on countless occasions. He was adored by supporters and is regarded as one of the finest forwards of his era for both club and country, claiming 16 major trophies and a host of personal accolades.
Rooney made the switch into management after hanging up his boots in 2021, progressing from player-manager to full-time head coach at Derby County. Yet his managerial aspirations were nowhere near as satisfied as his illustrious playing career, with the ex-United star confessing to harbouring disappointment about his time in the dugout.
Rooney told BBC Sport: “I think you always have regrets, and [I] reflect on what I’ve done. 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.”
The 40-year-old held positions at Derby, Birmingham, DC United and Plymouth Argyle. He left each club without securing any silverware and also presided over Derby’s drop into League One in 2022, despite receiving plaudits for his work in challenging conditions.
Given these managerial shortcomings, Rooney sees little prospect of a return to the touchline. He conceded: “Probably not,” when pressed on the possibility of going back into management.
“Of course, I’ve never closed doors and never say never, but at the moment – where I am now, where my head space is – I wouldn’t.”
Yet there appears to be one position that would tempt Rooney back into the fold. He considers it a “no-brainer” should the opportunity arise to join Carrick at Old Trafford.
Rooney would return to football if he was offered a job at United (Image: Getty)
Weighing in on the prospect of his former club captain’s appointment in January, he said: “Whether Michael goes in or if that’s Fletch [Darren Fletcher] or John O’Shea or myself, it needs people who know the football club.
“Roy Keane – I know Roy has had his opinions, I said about Roy going in earlier in the season. Having people who know the club, who care for the club and understand what it takes to be a Manchester United player – that’s where the club needs to be.
“The club has lost its identity, it’s lost that family feel, if you like. Whether it’s Ole [Ole Gunnar Solskjaer] or Michael, this is an opportunity to bring that back, bring the spirit of Manchester United back to the football club.”
When quizzed on whether he would link up with Carrick at United, Rooney was unequivocal: “Of course I would. It’s a no-brainer.
“I’m not begging a job here by the way. Just so everyone knows, if I was asked to go in of course I would. Appointing the manager is the most important thing.”
Carrick’s coaching staff comprises Steve Holland, Jonathan Woodgate, Jonny Evans, Travis Binnion and Craig Mawson — all of whom worked alongside the former midfielder during his temporary spell last season.
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