Coleen Rooney has leapt to the defence of her son Kai after the 16-year-old Manchester United youngster received the first criticism of his blossoming career. Kai, the son of legendary United striker Wayne Rooney, the club's all-time leading goalscorer, has been targeted by trolls despite not yet playing a senior game for the club.
Kai's career milestone
The teenager re-joined United's youth ranks at the age of 11 and last month signed a first-year scholarship contract, allowing him to continue studying while pursuing his football career. The next step would be a professional deal when he turns 17, but critics have already suggested his progress is due to his father's achievements.
Coleen's response
After Kai signed his scholarship, Coleen commented on Instagram: "Brilliant boys," with a fire emoji, a love heart and clapping hands. Critics hit back, with one user commenting: "Only because he's Rooney's son," while another added: "That nepotism better pay off!"
According to Heatworld, Coleen has hit back at the keyboard warriors. The 40-year-old reportedly concedes her sons may be "nepo babies" but insists they have worked hard and deserve their success. A source was quoted as saying: "Kai has just signed a professional contract with Man United, so Coleen's going to be helping with deals and media appearances."
Family support
The source added: "Cass enjoyed modelling with her on the Primark Campaign – he loves the camera, so she wants to get him more modelling gigs. Coleen knows there'll always be people who will call her boys nepo babies, but she doesn't care."
"She's brought them up to work hard and make the most of the opportunities that come their way – which is what a good mum should do."
Kai's progress
Kai is the oldest of the couple's four children, with brothers Klay, 13, Kit, 10, and Cass, eight. He has made six appearances for United's Under-18s, debuting at 15 in a 1-0 win against Everton last August. A season-ending injury in March ruled him out of the FA Youth Cup final against Manchester City, which United lost 2-1.
