Wayne Rooney speaks out on returning to management as he lays out key conditions
One year on from his latest sacking, Wayne Rooney has lifted the lid on his intentions regarding a return to management, as well as other ventures he'd consider in future
Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney refuses to close the door on his coaching career just yet. But he's set out certain conditions he would need to see fulfilled before considering a comeback.
Rooney, 40, was sacked by Plymouth on New Year's Eve in 2024 and has concentrated more exclusively on media punditry since then. It was the second time in as many postings that England's former all-time top scorer has been sacked, having also been fired by Birmingham City one year prior.
His spells at Derby and DC United ended more amicably as he resigned and left by mutual agreement, respectively. The United icon hasn't given up hope on that side of his career just yet, however, and addressed the matter during a recent appearance on The Smith Bros YouTube channel.
"I would, I definitely would if the right thing came up," said Rooney when propositioned regarding a return to management. "But I wouldn't put myself in situations like [when I lived] in DC, lived in Plymouth, lived in Birmingham, lived away and missed a lot of my kids' football and stuff.
"That means it has to be the right thing, and for it to be the right thing, and realistic as well. With the four jobs I've done, is that gonna come up? Which I doubt, so [a comeback becomes more complicated]..."
Rooney went on to acknowledge certain factors that have worked against him in previous posts. In particular, he noted budget constraints at Plymouth, as well as the added media scrutiny due to his name being associated.
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However, he was understanding of those points working against him and added: "At the minute, I'm happy just doing the TV work."
In addition to regular guest appearances on Match of the Day, Sky Sports and certain podcasts, Rooney has also launched his own channel. The Wayne Rooney Show launched in August 2025 and is another media commitment keeping the United icon busy during his time without a club.
As for other enterprises in sport that could tempt him back into competition, boxing could be an option. Rooney was involved in the sport as a hobby from a young age and hinted he could be tempted into the ring, as long as the money was right.
"I think I've missed the boat on that one," he said before giving the idea a little more thought. Do you know what? I'd never say never with it. It depends what offer's on the table."
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Rooney was previously linked with a lucrative showdown against influencer Jake Paul, who was recently knocked out by Anthony Joshua. Fans will also be reminded of his infamous knockout defeat against former team-mate Phil Bardsley in a home video of the pair sparring that went viral back in 2015.
That's the kind of content that not every football manager can say is available to the masses. However, Rooney will hope that's not the only thing setting him apart if he does make a return to the touchline.
