Wayne Rooney spoke about his dream to manage Manchester United while also pointing out what the club needs to build a squad for the future.
Manchester United’s on-field troubles continud to haunt them as they dropped more points in their chase for a top-four place. The Red Devils could only manage a draw away to Burnley in the Premier League earlier this week, which may allow their rivals to get ahead of by the end of the current matchday.
They have also faced criticism off the field for their mishaps in the transfer market and managerial appointments. They have brought in Ralf Rangnick, who has done a modest job to stabilise the squad so far, although it’s clear the German is not a long-term solution.
Manchester United will begin their search for a full-time manager again when Rangnick moves into a consulting role in the summer. One of the candidates tipped to become the next manager is Wayne Rooney, who remains at Derby County after snubbing a recent interview request for the Everton post.
While Rooney is fighting to keep Derby County relevant after administrative chaos and massive point deduction by the EFL, there’s no doubt he is already a manager with great pedigree. The former striker has been keeping a close eye on Old Trafford, often speaking out about their performances.
In a recent interview, the former England international revealed that he harbours dreams of managing in the Premier League, particularly Manchester United. His comments appeared in the Mirror, as he spoke about one day working at the club and what plans should be in place for the next incoming boss.
Rooney said, “I didn’t go to the [Everton] interview, which I was asked to go to. 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.
Rooney continued to talk Manchester United, making a few suggestions to the clubs on building a squad for the future. He said, “In my opinion, what they need – whether it’s Rangnick or whether it’s a new manager at the end of the season – is someone to go in and have time. Have time to build a squad. I think the next three years certainly is going to be very difficult to win the Premier League.
“They need to give someone that time to build a squad and then really challenge for the big prizes, which a club like Manchester United needs to be doing.”
Rooney may hold ambitions of managing Manchester United, but such a move is unlikely to happen this year. Instead, the Red Devils are looking at more high-profile managers such as Mauricio Pochettino, Erik ten Hag and even former Barcelona boss Luis Enrique.
