Kai Rooney has impressed Manchester United insiders with his performances for the club's academy this season, following a four-goal display against Burnley. The 16-year-old son of Wayne Rooney scored the first four goals in a 6-0 victory for United's under-18s, including a perfect hat-trick in the second half.
Impressive start to the season
Rooney Jr has made his debut for United's under-21s and has featured in the under-19 UEFA Youth League this season, boosting his chances of progressing further. He celebrates his 17th birthday on Monday.
One club insider told The Athletic: "As a player, Kai impacts games; he's tenacious, he has an eye for goal. We are now interested to see what he's like as he gets fitter and healthier since he had injuries and setbacks last year."
Versatility on display
Predominantly operating as a right winger, Rooney has shown an instinct for scoring goals, favouring his left foot while remaining proficient with both. This versatility was on display against Burnley, where he scored with each foot.
Another United source told The Athletic: "He's a great kid. Holds his own 100 per cent. He is a goalscorer who is quick off the shoulder. He's explosive over five to ten yards. He's not the biggest, he's going to be like his dad's build. Small, squat, aggressive. When he's on it, he's on it. He just has to be more consistent. But he has moments like against Burnley where he can get you off the edge of your seat."
Progress and potential
A separate coach with experience working with Kai added: "Kai's got a load of self-confidence. He can use both feet, but he's primarily left-footed. He's an accurate shooter with a powerful, clean, shot: good traits going for him as a striker. He's a good lad, never had any issues with him but he was also injured and I'm glad he's through that and playing well."
Rooney's four-goal salvo against Burnley boosted his tally to five goals and one assist in just three under-18 Premier League appearances this season. He made his under-21s bow during a 3-2 loss to Nottingham Forest in Premier League 2, where he was unable to leave a significant mark on proceedings.
His current form suggests Rooney may soon find the under-18 setup no longer presents a sufficient challenge. That would represent a monumental stride towards earning his senior debut and formally embarking on his quest to follow in father Wayne's footsteps at Old Trafford.
