Alious
Wayne Rooney has made it clear that if he steps back into coaching, it would only be for one of the two clubs closest to his heart — Everton or Manchester United.
The former England captain has been out of management since December 2024, following his dismissal by Plymouth Argyle just over a year ago. Since then, Rooney has shifted into punditry, regularly appearing in the media, while even briefly being linked with a potential boxing bout against YouTube star Jake Paul — a spectacle that ultimately never came to fruition.
Now, however, Rooney has reignited talk of a return to the dugout.
Speaking on Sam Allardyce’s No Tippy Tappy Football Podcast, the ex-Everton and Manchester United striker admitted he would consider going back into coaching — but only under very specific circumstances.
Rooney revealed that while a managerial comeback might not be on the table, he would entertain the idea of working in a different capacity at either Goodison Park or Old Trafford. The emotional pull of both clubs, he explained, makes them the only realistic destinations if he were to re-enter the professional coaching scene.
He stressed he isn’t naïve about walking straight into a top managerial role but acknowledged that contributing behind the scenes at either of his former clubs would strongly appeal to him.
Everton Links Rekindled
Rooney’s connection with Everton runs deep. It was under David Moyes that he first burst onto the Premier League stage as a teenager, and the pair share long-standing history. That existing relationship could, in theory, open the door to a reunion.
That said, any move to join Moyes’ current backroom staff appears uncertain. Club captain Seamus Coleman is widely viewed as a natural successor for a coaching role once he retires, potentially positioning him ahead of Rooney in the pecking order.
A Fresh Perspective for Moyes?
Still, the idea of Rooney joining Everton in some coaching capacity raises intriguing possibilities.
Moyes is known for his structured, pragmatic style, built on organisation and discipline. Rooney, by contrast, has generally favoured a more possession-oriented approach during his spells in management. That tactical contrast could offer Everton a broader strategic dimension — something that might benefit the squad.
Beyond tactics, Rooney’s stature alone would command immediate respect within Finch Farm. Few players in English football history carry his pedigree. His experience at the very highest level — both domestically and internationally — could prove invaluable, particularly to Everton’s attacking talents.
Young forward Thierno Barry, for instance, would undoubtedly gain from Rooney’s insight into movement, finishing, and mentality in the final third. Likewise, creative midfielder Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall could benefit from guidance rooted in elite-level experience.
For now, Rooney remains on the outside looking in. But should Everton — or Manchester United — come calling in the right capacity, he has made one thing clear: he would listen.
Alious
