John Rooney stands on the cusp of creating fresh FA Cup history, as the non-league manager aims to guide Macclesfield FC to the competition's prestigious third round. The Silkmen face a crucial away tie against Slough Town this Sunday, with victory securing a potential dream draw against Premier League giants.
From Gym Session to the Dugout: A Managerial Journey
John Rooney's transition from Macclesfield player to manager happened with remarkable speed. The 34-year-old was in the gym when he learned that title-winning boss Robbie Savage had left the club suddenly in the summer. With pre-season about to begin, rumours swirled that Savage was bound for Forest Green Rovers.
Rooney, an experienced midfielder with over 500 senior appearances for clubs including Wrexham, Stockport County, and Oldham Athletic, quickly met with owner Rob Smethurst. "It happened really quick. There wasn't much time to think about it," Rooney admits. Although a future move into coaching had been discussed when he rejoined the club in 2023, he didn't expect the opportunity to arise so soon.
His appointment was swiftly confirmed, placing him at the helm for the club's debut campaign in the National League North – their highest level since reformation. Interestingly, his hiring came amid incorrect speculation that his older brother, former England captain Wayne Rooney, was in line for the job. "No, I don't think he was a contender," John said with a laugh.
Building a Legacy Beyond the Famous Surname
While the Rooney surname carries immense weight in football, John is crafting his own impressive story. His football journey began at Everton's academy before his professional debut with Macclesfield Town in 2009. Now, his managerial career has started at the same club, completing a poignant full circle.
Assisted by former Everton and Arsenal striker Francis Jeffers, Rooney has steered Macclesfield to a solid position in his first season. The team currently sits just four points outside the National League North playoffs, while simultaneously embarking on an exciting FA Cup run.
Their path to the second round has seen them defeat:
- Atherton Laburnum Rovers
- Nantwich Town
- Stamford AFC
- AFC Totton
This Sunday's trip to Slough Town represents their first away fixture in this year's competition and a significant hurdle. The Rebels play in the National League South, meaning the teams are at an equivalent level in the football pyramid, though Macclesfield are in stronger league form.
Ninety Minutes From Footballing Folklore
The prize for victory is monumental: a place in Monday's third-round draw alongside the Premier League's elite clubs like Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and both Manchester clubs. For a phoenix club like Macclesfield, such a draw would be financially transformative and a moment of pure sporting romance.
"It would mean everything to progress," Rooney stated, reflecting on the opportunity. "It will be brilliant if we can get a good result and tie in the third round. We're going into it in good spirits, we're going there to get the win."
Rooney describes managing the club where his professional career began as a "godsend". With the backing of the board and a historic result within reach, Sunday's match at Slough Town (12:30pm kick-off) is more than just a cup tie; it's a chance for John Rooney to step out of the familial shadow and write his own chapter in FA Cup folklore.
