Wayne Rooney finally hangs his boots, permanently becomes Derby County Manager

A recent official announcement from Derby County confirms that Manchester United Legend Wayne Rooney has agreed to retire and become the manager of the EPL Championship club (Derby County) on a permanent basis until the summer of 2023. Rooney was initially given the role to serve as a player-manager for Derby after the dismissal of Philip Cocu late last year. 

The 35 years old said in an official system that he’s honoured to be given the opportunity to follow the likes of Brian Clough, Jim Smith, Frank Lampard and Phillip Cocu as the new Derby County manager: “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 honour and I can promise everyone involved in the club and all our fans, my staff and I will leave no stone unturned in achieving the potential I have witnessed over the last 12 months of this historic football club.” 

Rooney’s Active Days as a Football Player

The former Manchester United talisman’s 19 years professional playing career began at Everton where he managed to score 28 goals and provided 4 assists in 117 appearances for the Toffees. 

During his time at Manchester United, the former English national team captain scored 183 Premier League goals for the Red Devils (including an additional 70 in other competitions) in 559 matches (393 appearances in the Premier League). 

The new Derby County manager is Manchester United all-time Goal-scorer in all competitions. Also, Rooney’s recorded 208 goals (in 491 games) in the Premier League is currently the highest in the history of the English top-tier league football. Wayne Rooney will always be remembered for his terrific 13 years spell at Old Trafford.  

On international duties for his country, Rooney netted 53 goals in 120 games for England. Former England goalkeeper Peter Shilton’s 125 record appearances put Rooney as the second most capped player of all-time for the Three Lions in five fewer matches.