Kai Rooney, the 16-year-old son of Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney, has declared himself ready for the new season with a three-word message: 'Roll on pre-season.' The young forward missed the closing months of the 2025/26 campaign due to injury after making his Under-18s debut in January. However, he has posted a series of images on social media showing him training and relaxing, signaling his return to full fitness.
Boot Ban Lifted for Older Age Groups
In a significant boost, Rooney will be allowed to wear his sponsored Puma boots for Manchester United next season. He had previously been banned from wearing them for the U16s due to a club policy requiring all academy players to wear the same footwear. However, having turned 16 before the August 31 cut-off, he will now play in older age groups where the ban does not apply. Rooney signed his sponsorship deal with Puma at age 12 in 2022.
Wayne Rooney, United's all-time top scorer, praised the club's policy, saying on The Smith Brothers: Not A Podcast: 'He's obviously with Puma, but when he plays for the Manchester United U16s, something which I really like is he can't wear his Puma boots. All the academy have to wear the same boots. They do it because there's people from areas where they can't afford certain boots so I think it's really good. But he's played for the U18s a few times and he can then wear his Puma boots. He's doing well to be fair to him.'
Debut and Injury Setback
Rooney made his U18s debut at age 15 in a 1-0 win against Everton last August, featuring six times for the age group. His season was cut short in March by a season-ending injury, causing him to miss United's FA Youth Cup final against Manchester City, which United lost 2-1. Now recovered, his social media activity shows him in the gym and resting, indicating he is prepared for the upcoming season.
In an interview with The Talent Hunter on Instagram, Rooney outlined his ambitions: 'Playing on the biggest stage amongst the best players, winning trophies.' With Michael Carrick confirmed as the club's new permanent manager in May, Rooney is poised for what could be a pivotal season in his development.
