Wayne Rooney has revealed that the only job that would tempt him back into football management is a position on Michael Carrick's coaching staff at Manchester United. The former England international, who retired from playing in 2021 and later managed Derby County, Birmingham City, DC United, and Plymouth Argyle, admitted he would leap at the chance to work alongside his former teammate at Old Trafford.
Rooney's Regret and Management Hiatus
Rooney, 40, told BBC Sport that he regrets his managerial career, particularly his spell at Birmingham City. 'I think you always have regrets, and [I] 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. Despite being praised for his work at Derby under difficult circumstances, he oversaw their relegation to League One in 2022 and left each of his subsequent clubs without silverware.
When asked if he would return to the dugout, Rooney replied: '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.'
The One Exception: Working Under Carrick at United
However, Rooney made an exception for a role at Manchester United under Michael Carrick, who was appointed permanent manager in January. '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,' Rooney said. 'The club has lost its identity, it's lost that family feel. Whether it's Ole [Ole Gunnar Solskjaer] or Michael, this is an opportunity to bring that back, bring the spirit of Manchester United back to the football club.'
When asked directly if he would join Carrick at United, Rooney affirmed: '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. Appointing the manager is the most important thing.'
Carrick's Backroom Staff Finalised Without Rooney
Carrick has already finalised his backroom staff, which includes Steve Holland, Jonathan Woodgate, Jonny Evans, Travis Binnion, and Craig Mawson – all of whom were with him during his temporary stint last season. Rooney was not included, leaving his potential return on hold for now.
