Wayne Rooney’s tenure as head coach of D.C. United has come to an end after one and a half seasons. The departure was mutually agreed upon following the team’s last Major League Soccer (MLS) match of the season in October, in which D.C. United defeated New York City FC (NYCFC) 2-0. Despite this victory, the team missed out on playoff qualification for the fourth year in a row, leading to the decision to part ways.
Rooney, a renowned former Manchester United player, took the helm at D.C. United in July 2022. He had previously played for the club from 2018 to 2019. Under his leadership in the complete season he managed, the club saw an improvement, gaining 13 more points than in the previous season and ending with a total of 40 points. Despite these achievements, Rooney’s future plans remain uncertain, as he has not disclosed any details about his next career move.
“We have spoken with Wayne and agreed it is best for us to part ways at this time. This decision creates the avenue for our next General Manager to have the full opportunity to impart a new philosophy and structure onto our sporting operations, which begins with the critical identification of a Head Coach who will best align with this,” Jason Levien, CEO and Co-Chairman of D.C. United said.
“We are grateful to Wayne Rooney for all he has done for our club and for soccer in the Nation’s Capital, first as a D.C. United player and captain and most recently as our coach. He remains an important part of the D.C. United family and a valued and cherished friend.”
“It’s the right time,” Rooney told The Athletic. “I’ve done everything I can to get this club into the playoffs. It’s not a single thing that’s happened. It’s about timing. What lies ahead, I don’t know. I’ve seen a lot of reports in the media. I’m going back with nothing lined up.”
Mere hours after his D.C. United departure was confirmed, Rooney was strongly linked with taking over at English Championship League team Birmingham City. Per The Mirror, the club’s American honors are not convinced by incumbent coach John Eustace and remain interested in bringing in a bigger name.
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