Coleen and Wayne Rooney swapped the UK's winter chill for Caribbean sunshine this New Year's Eve, celebrating with their family on the beaches of Barbados.
Kai Rooney Takes Centre Stage
For once, it wasn't Coleen who commanded all the attention. The 39-year-old, who looked stunning in a leopard print bikini and beige ruched cover-up, was upstaged by her eldest son, Kai, 16. The budding Manchester United footballer showcased his athleticism in a spirited beach sprint against his dad's former teammate, Jonny Evans.
The pair raced across the sand in their swim shorts, grimacing with effort as they gave it their all. The Rooneys were joined by their other sons—Klay, 11, Kit, eight, and Cass, six—as well as Coleen's parents, Colette and Tony, and her brother.
A Star-Studded Family Getaway
The holiday party also included several retired footballers, with Wayne's ex-United colleagues Michael Carrick and Darren Gibson also enjoying the break. Wayne, 40, relaxed in a white T-shirt, grey cap, and shades, sipping a cocktail with friends.
Kai, sporting black shades and a silver chain, was also seen chatting with pals. His beachfront sprint highlighted a remarkable comeback from a serious injury that had sidelined him for months, during which he was on crutches with his right foot in a protective boot.
A Triumphant Return From Injury
Kai's journey back to fitness has been challenging. In September, he posted a despondent message on Instagram stating, 'Life can't get worse'. His perseverance paid off when, just weeks before the holiday, he scored his first goal for Manchester United's Under-18s with a left-footed volley against Middlesbrough.
Having joined United's academy at age 11 in 2020, his progress was halted by injury after a surprise call-up to the Under-19s earlier this season at just 15. His return to action and subsequent goal in mid-December marked a significant personal victory.
The Barbados trip followed a festive family outing to LaplandUK earlier in December, which Coleen described as 'magical'. It also comes after reports that the Rooneys spent tens of thousands of pounds on Christmas lights at their £20 million Cheshire mansion, High Lake Manor, with displays said to be visible from planes approaching Manchester Airport.
