Wayne Rooney on why he’d “love” to be Manchester United manager - and why he turned down Everton

The Old Trafford legend expressed his interest in the job at his movie premiere in Manchester.
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Wayne Rooney has said he would ‘love’ to manage his old club Manchester United - but he isn’t ready to give up on Derby County just yet.

Rooney was in Manchester on Wednesday night for the premiere of his eponymous new Amazon Prime film.

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On the red carpet at Home cinema, he revealed an interest in managing United or Everton one day - but says he doesn’t intend to walk away from the challenges facing County this season.

Beleaguered Derby were put into administration and docked 21 points, leaving them languishing in the relegation zone.

Wayne Rooney is now manager of Derby County Credit: GettyWayne Rooney is now manager of Derby County Credit: Getty
Wayne Rooney is now manager of Derby County Credit: Getty

Rooney told reporters he was also offered the chance to interview for the Everton top job but declined.

He said: “I didn’t go to the interview, which I was asked to go to.

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“I’ve always been one who likes a challenge and is willing to put the work in and fight.

“I’ve stood in front of my players and told them, ‘I’m with you, trust me, I’m fighting with you’... what type of person would I be if - at the first opportunity - I left them?

“True to my word, I am fighting for the club. I am trying to get us out.

“And then Everton, Manchester United - two clubs close to my heart. Of course, one day I’d love to manage either of them clubs.”

Wayne Rooney attends the “Rooney” World Premiere with wife Coleen at Home cinema in Manchester Credit: GettyWayne Rooney attends the “Rooney” World Premiere with wife Coleen at Home cinema in Manchester Credit: Getty
Wayne Rooney attends the “Rooney” World Premiere with wife Coleen at Home cinema in Manchester Credit: Getty

‘Lowest ebb’

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Speaking to BBC Breakfast, Rooney also admitted he used to drink-drive and feared he could have killed someone at his lowest ebb when he was suffering from mental health issues and abusing alcohol.

He said: “I knew I needed help, to save myself but also to save my family.”

  • Rooney is on Amazon Prime from Friday.