Wayne Rooney SACKED by Plymouth after shocking nine-match winless run with Man Utd legend's managerial career in tatters as he leaves Pilgrims rock bottom of Championship table

Rooney and Plymouth have agreed to mutually part ways following an abysmal start to the Championship campaign. The Pilgrims are rock-bottom, winning just four of their 23 matches and sitting four points from safety. The Manchester United legend took over in the summer but will be looking for another new role in 2025 as his latest managerial venture comes to an end. Plymouth have confirmed assistant coach Mike Phelan and first-team coach Stephen Ireland will also be departing.

In a statement released by the club, Rooney said: "I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Board of Plymouth Argyle Football Club, in particular Simon Hallett and Neil Dewsnip who I shared great relationships with. Thanks also to all the staff who made me feel welcome and who make the club such a special place, the players and fans for their efforts and support during my time as Head Coach and I wish them all the best for the future.

"To the Green Army thanks for making the games at Home Park so special, they are memories that we will share forever. I would also like to give a special mention to my coaching staff Kevin Nancekivell, Simon Ireland, Darryl Flahavan and Mike Phelan for their knowledge, dedication, help and support. Plymouth Argyle will always hold a special place in my heart, and I will continue to look out for and take interest in their results."

Rooney's seven-month stint at Plymouth had few positives and it is another negative mark when it comes to his reputation as a manager. Having now had spells at Derby, D.C United and Birmingham all lasting less than two seasons, it remains to be seen whether the Manchester United legend will continue down his current path, or move back into the world of punditry. There is no doubt that Rooney was one of the best players of the 21st century, but as a manager, he has yet to prove himself at the top level.

No one knows what the future looks like for Rooney, but at Plymouth, there will be a fresh determination to avoid the drop. The club have confirmed that first-team coach Kevin Nancekivell and club captain Joe Edwards will lead the team ahead of the Pilgrims' clash with Bristol City on New Year's Day.