Wayne Rooney has stated that he would only consider a return to football management if presented with an opportunity to join Michael Carrick's backroom team at Manchester United. The former England international, currently working as a BBC pundit for the World Cup, spent 13 years at Old Trafford and played alongside Carrick, who was recently appointed as permanent manager.
Rooney's Managerial Career and Regrets
Rooney transitioned into management after retiring as a player in 2021, starting as a player-manager at Derby County before taking on full-time roles at Derby, Birmingham City, DC United, and Plymouth Argyle. He left each club without winning any silverware and oversaw Derby's relegation to League One in 2022, though he received praise for his work under difficult circumstances.
Reflecting on his managerial stint, Rooney told BBC Sport: "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."
Unlikely to Return to Management
When asked about the possibility of returning to management, Rooney admitted it is unlikely. He said: "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."
One Condition: A Role at Manchester United
However, Rooney revealed that one position would tempt him back: a role at Manchester United under Carrick. He described it as a "no-brainer." Speaking about Carrick's appointment, Rooney said: "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. Having people who know the club, who care for the club and understand what it takes to be a Manchester United player - that's where the club needs to be. The club has lost its identity, it's lost that family feel, if you like. 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 directly asked if he would link up with Carrick at United, Rooney was unequivocal: "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."
Current Coaching Staff at Manchester United
Carrick's current coaching staff includes Steve Holland, Jonathan Woodgate, Jonny Evans, Travis Binnion, and Craig Mawson, all of whom worked with him during his temporary spell as manager last season.
