English football: Wayne Rooney stepped down as Derby County manager

He decided to step aside. The history of Manchester United, Wayne Rooney, chose to resign from his position as manager of Derby Couny, after relegation to League One and after 18 months leading the English team.

The former Manchester United and England player joined Derby County in January 2020 as player-manager and ended that year in temporary charge following the departure of Phillip Cocu as manager.

Rooney, 36, hung up his boots on being appointed as Derby’s first manager in January 2021 and soon proved his worth in the job, although he was unable to keep the team in the English Second Division after having to deal with a suspension from 21 points.

“Over the course of the summer, I have been closely following developments involving the Derby County property”, said the all-time top scorer for England and United. “Today I met with the administrators to inform them of my decision that it was time to leave the club. To be fair to them, they went to great lengths to change my mind, but I was already made up”, he added.

“My journey has been a roller coaster of emotions, both high and low, but I have to say that I have enjoyed the challenge. Personally, I feel that the club now needs to be run by someone with fresh energy and who is not affected by the events that have happened in the last 18 months.”, commented Rooney in his goodbye.

“I will remember my time in the Derby with great pride and affection and would like to thank all my staff, players and of course the fans for their incredible support. I will never forget you and hope to see you all again in the near future and in happier times.yes”, he finished.