Football legend Wayne Rooney has lifted the lid on the unconventional dietary habits that sustained him during his illustrious playing career, revealing a surprising reliance on two specific junk food items that were so essential he had them internationally shipped.
Stateside Cravings: The Noodle Shipment
The former Manchester United and England striker first moved to the United States in 2018, joining DC United. During his subsequent managerial stint with the MLS club between 2022 and 2023, Rooney found himself desperately missing two British staples.
In a conversation on his podcast, The Wayne Rooney Show, the 40-year-old confessed to his co-hosts, including Kelly Sommers, that his cravings led to an extraordinary solution. Rooney arranged for Koka Noodles and Discos crisps to be shipped across the Atlantic to Washington DC because he couldn't find them locally.
"Them noodles, when I lived in America, I couldn't get them, and I shipped them over," Rooney admitted. "Them and Discos." He even provided cooking instructions for his favourite curry-flavoured instant noodles, detailing the simple process of adding boiling water and powder.
The Pre-Debut McDonald's Meal
Rooney's dietary revelations didn't stop there. He also shared the unexpected meal he consumed before making his Premier League debut for Everton as a 16-year-old in August 2002.
"Gospel truth. I went to McDonalds," Rooney confessed. "I got a chicken burger and chips." Displaying a hint of tactical thinking even then, he notably avoided a Coke for fear of getting a stitch during the match.
His co-host Sommers expressed disbelief, questioning if the meal repeated on him. Rooney was adamant, stating that at 16, "you eat what you want." The unconventional pre-match fuel clearly worked; powered by his McChicken, Rooney went on to assist the first goal in Everton's 2-2 draw with Tottenham at Goodison Park.
Life in Washington and a Mutual Departure
Rooney's second stint in the United States saw him living apart from his wife, Coleen, who felt there wasn't enough for their four children to do in Washington DC. His bulk orders of Koka noodles, a cost-effective comfort, provided a taste of home, with 30 packets costing just £18.20.
Rooney's time as DC United manager concluded after the 2023 season when the two parties mutually parted ways following the team's failure to make the playoffs.
