DC United appoints Rooney as head coach

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Former England and Manchester United star Wayne Rooney was named DC United's new head coach on Tuesday and tasked with reviving the moribund Major League Soccer side.

It was a reunion for the 36-year-old British icon, who played for DC United from July 2018 to October 2019, scoring 25 goals in 52 appearances before leaving to serve as a player and manager at County from Derby in England.< /p>

Rooney resigned as Derby County manager last month following the team's relegation to League One, England's third tier, opening the door to his return to MLS.

"Wayne is a footballing legend and one of the most exciting and dynamic promising managers in our sport," said United co-chairman Jason Levien.

"He has already proven in his young coaching career that he knows how to lead a group through adversity. He has an understanding of our league and what it takes to succeed in MLS thanks to his time as a two years with us as a player.

"The passion he has shown wearing the black and red has electrified our city and our club and we are delighted to welcome him back as head coach."

DC United, meanwhile, have struggled this season, sacking manager Hernan Losada after six games and replacing him with caretaker manager Chad Ashton.

United are 5-10 with two draws on 17 points, sharing last place overall in the 28-team league. The club haven't reached the playoffs since Rooney helped them get there in 2019.

Philadelphis beat DC United 7-0 last week, tying the league record for the biggest margin of defeat.

DC United's next game is Wednesday at home against Columbus, but Rooney is awaiting final visa paperwork before his role as official coach can begin. DC's next game is Saturday at Minnesota.

“Wayne is a winner and a competitor. His work ethic and what he demands of himself and his players is second to none,” said DC United President of Football Operations Dave Kasper.

"Wayne's approach and the style of football he wants to play matches our philosophy and we believe he is the right person to take our club forward."

Inter Miami head coach Phil Neville, Rooney's former England and Manchester United team-mate, says having played in MLS before will be an advantage for Rooney as a coach.

"He is one of the most iconic figures in English football...which brings a level of expectation," Neville said in reaction to news of the deal.

“Boy has that touch where he succeeds. Boy has that hunger and desire to do whatever it takes to succeed.”

AFP

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