Wayne Rooney admitted he still carries regrets over a managerial career that never matched his playing pedigree. After a caretaker spell turned permanent at Derby County in January 2021, he watched the club plunge into administration and suffer relegation to League One, prompting his June 2022 exit. The former England striker then spent 15 months at DC United before returning to England.

Rooney’s next test arrived at Birmingham City, the first appointment by the American‑owned Blues. He inherited a side that had been sixth in the Championship under John Eustace, but slipped to 20th and endured nine defeats in 15 games before being sacked after 83 days. He later took charge of Plymouth Argyle, winning four of 23 matches as the Pilgrims also fell to League One.

In a Reddit AMA, Rooney said the Birmingham spell haunts him and that “probably not” describes his appetite for another dugout role. He hinted at a possible coaching stint at Manchester United under Michael Carrick but emphasized his focus on family and punditry for the 2026 World Cup. At present he walks away from management.