Man Utd legend Wayne Rooney told management hiatus will 'do him a world of good' after 'hectic' spells at Plymouth & Tom Brady's Birmingham

The 39-year-old was dismissed from his role at Plymouth earlier this season after just 25 games. His time at Birmingham was even shorter, lasting only 83 days before the club’s hierarchy opted to relieve him of his duties.

Rooney took on a punditry role during Euro 2024, analysing matches for television audiences. Now, after quitting Plymouth, he expanded his media presence, joining Amazon Prime’s Champions League coverage, where he recently made his debut during Manchester City’s clash with Real Madrid in the play-offs.

Former Manchester United defender Phil Bardsley believes that stepping away from the managerial hot seat - at least for now - is exactly what Rooney needs.

Speaking in an interview with BoyleSports, who offer Premier League odds, Bardsley said: "I was chatting to Wayne last week and obviously he has had a hectic time in recent years when it comes to retiring, managing Derby, D.C. United, Birmingham and then Plymouth. It didn’t work out how he would’ve imagined, but working non-stop does take its toll on you as does being away from home for so long.

"There is a lot that goes into management that people might not see, I think right now is a good chance for him to have some time with his family and away from management and coaching, I think it will do him a world of good. He’s enjoying time with the kids and Coleen is up to her own thing, he is in great spirits and is back in the gym by the looks of things."

Although Rooney is not managing a club at the moment, he will soon be seen on the touchline once again at Old Trafford - this time for a charitable cause. On June 15, the football icon is set to co-manage England in Soccer Aid 2025, an annual charity match. Interestingly, Rooney will be sharing managerial duties with boxing legend Tyson Fury, a partnership that is bound to grab attention.