Wayne Rooney’s future in football is under the spotlight following a difficult end to 2024.
The Manchester United legend was recently sacked by Plymouth Argyle after a dreadful run left the club at the bottom of the EFL Championship table.
This poor spell has sparked conversations about his next steps, with one suggestion standing out: a move to Manchester City to learn under Pep Guardiola.
Rooney’s struggles as a manager are no secret. Plymouth managed just three goals while conceding 35 in 13 away games during his tenure.
The team failed to secure a win in their last nine matches, a run that led to Rooney’s dismissal. Despite his challenges in management, his legacy as a player ensures he remains a prominent figure in football discussions.
Sky Sports pundit Don Goodman believes Rooney might benefit from stepping away from the pressures of being a head coach. Instead, he suggested Rooney could gain valuable experience by working as an assistant.
Goodman even floated the idea of Rooney joining Manchester City, where he could learn from one of the best in the business.
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Goodman’s comments highlight Rooney’s uncertain future. He said: “I feel sorry for Wayne. Every role he’s taken has been tough. Perhaps he needs some time out and could consider being a number two. Learning under someone like Guardiola wouldn’t be the worst idea.”
Rooney himself once joked about joining City to study Guardiola’s methods, but such a move would be shocking given his Manchester United ties.
Meanwhile, Rooney has also been linked to a potential return to Old Trafford as a specialist coach.
For now, the 39-year-old has options. Whether it’s as a pundit, a coach, or even taking time off for family, Rooney has decisions to make as he looks to rebuild his managerial reputation.
