Pranav Nair
Wayne Rooney closing in on managing Derby County on a permanent basis
According to The Telegraph (Subscription Required), Manchester United Wayne Rooney is closing in on becoming the permanent manager of Derby County.
Having spent two seasons in the MLS, Rooney returned to English shores as player-manager at Pride Park in January 2020. He was part of a four-member managerial team that replaced Philip Cocu before being put in sole charge against Wycombe Wanderers.
Currently serving as caretaker manager, he has led the Rams in nine games, winning three and losing two. It is fair to say that it hasn’t been the most impressive of showings. (h/t Daily Mail)
Despite the rather sketchy record, it would appear Rooney is line to benefit from Derby’s imminent takeover. Sheikh Khaled, a family member of Manchester City owner Sheikh Mansour, is close to gaining control of the club.
Rooney appears poised to be named as the permanent manager. It will bring an end to his illustrious playing career.
It will be a dream come true for the 35-year-old as he now aims to leave his mark in management. Rooney is confident of his abilities and is looking to get Derby back to where they belong. (h/t Derby Telegraph)
Derby are currently 22nd with half the season to go. Rooney will have to showcase his mettle if he is to turn the club’s fortunes around.
Having made it to the Championship playoff finals in 2019, Derby have since failed reach the same levels. With his position secured and new backing from the owners, Rooney can hopefully be the man to take the Rams up.
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Either way, it would appear that the journey of Rooney as a player is coming to an end. Rather than rest on his laurels, he is now set to embark on a new path.
