Wayne Rooney has revealed the only job that would tempt him back into football: a coaching role under Michael Carrick at Manchester United. The former England striker, 40, has been out of management since leaving Plymouth Argyle in 2024 and told BBC Sport he would consider a return if asked to join Carrick's backroom team at Old Trafford.
Rooney's Managerial Regrets
Rooney admitted he harbours regrets about his managerial career, particularly his stint at Birmingham City. "I think you always have regrets, and reflect on what I've done. I think the biggest regret I have is the Birmingham City job, in terms of the timing of when I took over from John Eustace," he said.
After retiring as a player in 2021, Rooney managed Derby County, Birmingham City, DC United, and Plymouth Argyle. He left each club without winning a trophy and oversaw Derby's relegation to League One in 2022, though he received praise for his work under difficult circumstances.
Unlikely to Return to Management
When asked if he would return to management, Rooney responded: "Probably not. Of course, I've never closed doors and never say never, but at the moment – where I am now, where my head space is – I wouldn't." However, he made an exception for a role under Carrick at Manchester United.
Old Trafford 'No-Brainer'
Rooney, who spent 13 years at United and won 16 major trophies, believes the club needs to restore its identity. "Whether Michael goes in or if that's Fletch [Darren Fletcher] or John O'Shea or myself, it needs people who know the football club," he said. "The club has lost its identity, it's lost that family feel. This is an opportunity to bring that back."
Addressing the prospect of working with Carrick, Rooney added: "Of course I would. It's a no-brainer. I'm not begging a job here by the way. Just so everyone knows, if I was asked to go in of course I would."
Carrick's Backroom Team Confirmed
Carrick's coaching staff has been announced, with Rooney not included for now. The team comprises Steve Holland, Jonathan Woodgate, Jonny Evans, Travis Binnion, and Craig Mawson – all of whom worked with Carrick during his caretaker spell last season.
