Man Utd legend leaves managerial role after 2-0 victory as CEO explains decision

Former Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney has mutually agreed to leave his position as D.C. United head coach after they missed out on the MLS play-offs for a fourth consecutive year despite a 2-0 win over New York City FC.

Ex-Leeds United man Mateusz Klich scored for Rooney’s side with Chris Durkin adding the second to move D.C. United into ninth in the MLS Eastern Conference standings. However, it was only their 10th league win of the season with the side drawing 10 and losing 14 of their other 24 MLS outings this term.

“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,” said Jason Levien CEO and Co-Chairman of D.C. United.

“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.”

Rooney insists he has does not have a new position lined up. He was linked with the Birmingham City job last month after their manager John Eustace emerged as a potential target for Scottish Premiership side Rangers.

Rooney said: “It’s the right time. I’ve done everything I can to get this club into the play-offs. It’s not a single thing that’s happened. It’s about timing. New job? I’ve nothing lined up.”

The former United forward is the club’s all-time leading goalscorer, with 253 goals in 559 appearances at Old Trafford between 2004 and 2017 as he played a big role during the success of the club under Sir Alex Ferguson between 2004 and 2013.