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All-time great
Manchester United’s all-time record scorer is moving from the pitch to the sidelines.
Wayne Rooney has officially retired from playing to accept the position of full-time manager at Derby County.
The Englishman has been in charge of the Championship side as player-manager since November.
His Achievements
At 18 years of age, Rooney became the world’s most expensive teenager when he signed with the Red Devils from Everton in 2004 for £27m.
Rooney thrived at Old Trafford helping the team win just about every trophy imaginable.
In his 13 years with the club, United won five Premier League titles, an FA Cup, four League Cups, the Europa League, the Champions League, and a FIFA World Club Cup.
In 2017 he became United’s all-time leading goal scorer when he notched his 250th goal in a 1-1 draw versus Stoke.
He left United having scored 253 goals altogether.
Rooney had an impressive resume not only at the club level but internationally as well.
The striker competed in three World Cup’s for England and is the countries all-time leading goal scorer with 53 in 120 appearances.
He won a total of 16 trophies during his illustrious playing career.
High Praise
As you’d expect United’s legendary striker got a ton of messages from former teammates and players regarding his retirement.
United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says: “It is great news for Wayne and I really wish him all the best. I think he’s got everything going for him to be a good manager. He’s had a very good career, he’s got a very good personality and he wants to have success. He’s played under some top managers and I’m sure he’s over the moon at the moment, so congratulations to him.”
Former United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar tweeted: “One of the greatest, a lovely teammate and a fantastic goal scorer! Happy retirement @WayneRooney, enjoy your career after football and all the best in your life as a manager!”
Ex-United defender Rio Ferdinand said:” Every Sunday footballers hero – looked like one, played like a world beater! 😂❤️”
Rooney himself admits making this decision was not an easy one.
“I’ve had a great career and enjoyed every minute,” said Rooney. “Of course, I will miss it but I’ve been very fortunate to play for some massive teams. Playing for Everton was a boyhood dream of mine and then to go and play for 13 years at United was the highlight. To stay at the biggest club in the world for so long and win so many trophies is something I’ll always appreciate.”
What’s Next?
Rooney’s focus now shifts to turning around what’s been a difficult first half of the season for Derby County.
The Rams are in 22nd place in the Championship at the moment in danger of falling into the third-tier of English football.
Since Rooney’s been manager though the club’s fortunes have turned around a bit.
The club has three wins and four draws in nine games since Rooney took over.
Rooney is locked in as team manager until 2023. (JSL).
