Wayne Rooney reveals what Sir Alex Ferguson does ‘every time I get sacked’ – with legendary Man Utd boss following career of Birmingham & Plymouth coaching flop

Former England captain Rooney enjoyed considerable success while working under Ferguson at Old Trafford – winning five Premier League titles and the Champions League. He went on to become the Red Devils’ all-time leading goalscorer after seeing Sir Alex retire in 2013.

Rooney hung up his boots in January 2021 and moved into management with Derby. He suffered relegation out of the Championship there, before failing to lead D.C. United into the MLS play-offs after returning to the United States.

A spell working with NFL legend Tom Brady at Birmingham lasted just 83 days, before overseeing only 25 games at the helm of Plymouth before being relieved of his duties at the end of 2024. Rooney is now back on punditry duty as he takes in an enforced break from life in the dugout.

Sir Alex is among those that Rooney can lean on for support when it comes to coaching, with the legendary Scot remaining in contact with a player that he made the most expensive teenager in world football when doing a deal with Everton in 2004. Rooney - speaking on the Stick to Football podcast, brought to you by Sky Bet – has said: “Every time I get sacked from a managerial job; I get a text from Sir Alex Ferguson.”

Rooney did not reveal whether said messages were supportive or critical, but the 39-year-old is still hoping to get back into management at some stage. He has left himself open to offers, while preparing to star in a documentary alongside wife Coleen, and is aware of the need to start rebuilding his reputation.