Wayne Rooney officially retires from playing football in order to focus on a managerial role after an appointment as Derby County manager
The 35-year-old Wayne Rooney retires as the all-time leading goal-scorer for both England and Manchester United. During his playing years, Rooney scored 253 goals in 559 appearances for Manchester United and won five Premier League titles alongside one Champions League and one Europa League crown.
For his country, he scored 53 goals in 120 appearances.
The new Derby coach has been acting as interim manager since the end of November. But, currently, he has taken over the job on a two-and-a-half-year contract. The decision to appoint Rooney has been jointly made by Derby’s current owner, Mel Morris, and the prospective owner Sheikh Khaled.
Rooney said, “when I first arrived back in the United Kingdom, I was completely blown away by the potential of Derby County Football Club. The stadium, training ground, the quality of the playing staff and the young players coming through and of course the fan base that has remained loyal and supportive”.
“Despite other offers, I knew instinctively Derby County was the place for me. To be given the opportunity to follow the likes of Brian Clough, Jim Smith, Frank Lampard and Phillip Cocu is such an honor. I can promise everyone involved in the club and all our fans, my staff, I will leave no stone unturned in achieving the potential I have witnessed over the last 12 months of this historic football club”.
Liam Rosenior, Shay Given, and Justin Walker will retain their positions on Rooney’s coaching staff. Also, Steve McClaren will continue the duties of technical director and advisor to the board of directors.