Playing Career:
Rooney began his professional career at Everton, where he made an impact as a teenager, scoring a stunning goal against Arsenal in 2002. His potential quickly attracted the attention of top clubs, and in 2004, he transferred to Manchester United for a then-British record fee of £25.6 million.
At United, Rooney established himself as one of the club’s all-time greats, playing for them from 2004 to 2017. He won numerous Premier League titles, FA Cups, and Champions League trophies, and became United's all-time top scorer with 253 goals. He was known for his versatility, work rate, and ability to score goals from almost any position on the field.
Rooney also had a prominent international career with the England national team. He made his debut in 2003 and became England's all-time leading scorer with 53 goals until his record was later broken by Harry Kane in 2018.
Style of Play:
Rooney was known for his exceptional technical skills, vision, and leadership on the pitch. While he played as a forward, he was also versatile enough to drop deeper into midfield when required. His fiery attitude and competitive nature made him a key figure for both club and country, though it also sometimes led to disciplinary issues.
Management Career:
After retiring from playing, Rooney transitioned into management. He became the manager of Derby County in 2020, initially in a player-coach role before taking full control of the team. His managerial tenure at Derby was marked by financial difficulties and challenges, but he managed to keep the team competitive.
In 2022, he became the manager of D.C. United in Major League Soccer (MLS), marking a new chapter in his managerial career in the United States.
Legacy:
Rooney's legacy is built not only on his footballing achievements but also on his contribution to the game in England and globally. His leadership, skill, and goal-scoring record have ensured that he remains a beloved figure in the world of football. He is often considered one of the best players in Premier League history.
He was known for his fiery passion on the field, and while not always the most disciplined, his raw talent and dedication to the game were undeniable. Off the pitch, he has also faced some controversies, but his footballing achievements have firmly placed him in the history books as one of England's greatest footballers.