Former Manchester United and England star Wayne Rooney has resigned as manager of troubled Derby as the club prepare for their first season in the third tier in 36 years. Rooney was unable to keep Derby in the championship last season after the crisis-torn club was hit with a 21-point deduction as punishment for financial problems. In his first managerial role, Rooney commanded Derby impressively to avoid relegation into the final weeks of the season. That valiant effort had suggested the 36-year-old could lead Derby to promotion from League One next season.
But with Derby remaining on the board through a turbulent closing season, Rooney has chosen to leave the Rams with the new season starting on July 30.
“Wayne Rooney informed Derby County Football Club today that he wants to be relieved of his duties as first-team manager with immediate effect,” the club said in a statement.
Rooney, Manchester United and England’s all-time top goalscorer, took charge of Derby in 2020 on a one-year contract.
The former England captain was linked with an emotional return to Everton as manager last season, after receiving much praise for his work at Derby.
“Over the course of the summer, I closely followed developments related to Derby County property,” he said.
“Today I met with the administrators to inform them of my decision that it was time for me to leave the club. To be honest, they went out of their way to change my decision, but my decision was taken.”
“My time at the club has been a rollercoaster of emotions, both highs and lows, but I have to say that I have enjoyed the challenge.”
Fears for Derby’s future mounted last week when American businessman Chris Kirchner withdrew his offer to buy the club.
But the sale of Pride Park to local real estate developer David Clowes, who hopes to complete a takeover, has allayed concerns that the club could go bankrupt.
Regardless of the potential for new ownership, Rooney felt Derby would benefit from the newfound energy of a manager who is not exhausted by the relentless negativity surrounding the club.
“Personally, I think the club should now be led by someone with fresh energy and unaffected by the events of the last 18 months,” he said.
“I will remember my time at Derby with great pride and fondness and would like to thank all my staff, players and of course the fans for their incredible support.
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“I will never forget you and hope to see you all again in the near future and in happier times.”
(This story was not edited by DailyExpertNews staff and was generated automatically from a syndicated feed.)
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