Future Man Utd manager? Rooney reveals coaching ambition

Manchester United and England legend Wayne Rooney has revealed that he is already working on his coaching badges as he prepares to enter the world of management.

At 33 years of age, the man who will end his career as the Red Devils and Three Lions’ all-time leading goalscorer is starting to plan for the future.

There is no indication that he will be hanging up his boots any time soon, with a return to form enjoyed in MLS with D.C. United and a final international outing set to be taken in against the United States.

Rooney is, however, aware that the day will come when he has to step away from the field.

He intends to remains in the game by moving into the dugout, with an underlying desire to return to England and chase down more Premier League dreams.

Rooney told United’s official club app: “It is something I am passionate about and I want to do.

“Obviously, I need to complete my badges, which I am doing over in the States.

“Hopefully, by the time I come back to England, I will have them completed and be in a position to accept or reject any offers I get.”

Rooney has seen a number of former team-mates move into coaching of late, with the likes of Michael Carrick, Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard taking on prominent roles.

Many of those he enjoyed considerable success alongside at Old Trafford have also taken on new challenges in the world of punditry.

Rio Ferdinand, Gary Neville and Paul Scholes have all made that transition, and that could be another option for Rooney to explore.

He added: “There is always time.

“You have got time to do TV if that is the way you want to go. I think everyone is different.

“I would prefer to give coaching or management a go. If it doesn't work out then I am sure there would be opportunities to do TV and whatever feels right for you.”

Rooney’s contract with D.C. United is due to run until 2021, so he will not be turning his hand to management or media any time soon.

He ended his debut campaign in America with 12 goals to his name, with those efforts enough to earn a playoff berth and a nomination for the MLS MVP Award.