Plymouth, UK – Former Manchester United and England legend Wayne Rooney has left his role as manager of Plymouth Argyle, just seven months into a three-year contract. The decision comes after a mutual agreement between Rooney and the club, following a torrid run that leaves the Pilgrims rooted to the bottom of the Championship table as they enter 2025.
A Challenging Tenure
Rooney’s time at Home Park has been marked by struggles on the pitch, with Plymouth managing just four wins and amassing only 18 points so far this season. Relegation is now a looming reality for the club, which has not won a match since November 5th — a narrow 1-0 victory over fellow relegation candidates Portsmouth.
Since that win, Plymouth has endured a disastrous run, conceding 26 goals in nine matches and collecting just three points. Despite occasional flashes of potential, including a thrilling 3-2 victory over Sunderland, the team’s form has largely been defined by frustrating defeats, starting with a 4-0 loss to Sheffield Wednesday in Rooney’s first game in charge.
Club Statement on Rooney’s Departure
In an official statement, Plymouth Argyle confirmed Rooney’s exit, along with his backroom staff:
“Plymouth Argyle can confirm that the club and Head Coach Wayne Rooney have mutually agreed to part ways with immediate effect. Departing the club with Rooney will be Assistant Head Coach Mike Phelan and first-team coach Simon Ireland.”
The club also announced interim leadership arrangements:
“First-team coach Kevin Nancekivell and Club Captain Joe Edwards will lead the team for our Sky Bet Championship match against Bristol City on New Year’s Day. Daryl Flahavan will continue as Goalkeeping coach. We would like to thank Wayne and his team for all their efforts and wish them well for the future.”
What Went Wrong for Rooney?
Appointed ahead of the 2024/25 season, Rooney came to Plymouth with high expectations following his managerial stints at Derby County and DC United. However, his tenure at Argyle was plagued by poor defensive performances and a lack of consistency.
While Rooney’s name brought attention to the club, results failed to match the expectations. Despite occasional bright moments, such as the Sunderland win, Plymouth’s inability to grind out results ultimately sealed his fate.
What’s Next for Plymouth Argyle?
With Rooney’s departure, Plymouth faces an uphill battle to avoid relegation from the Championship. Heading into the new year, the Pilgrims are in dire need of a turnaround. The interim team of Nancekivell and Edwards will hope to rally the players for their crucial match against Bristol City on New Year’s Day.
Rooney’s Future
As for Rooney, the departure from Plymouth marks his fourth managerial stint, adding to his experiences with Derby County, DC United, and a brief role as caretaker at Derby. While the Manchester United legend’s managerial career has been a mixed bag so far, it remains to be seen where he will land next.
