Player to coach transition isn't always successful: Rooney sacked after 83 days

Iti911

The increasing trend of football players becoming coaches after retirement is evident, but excelling on the field doesn't guarantee success as a coach. Currently, only a few players transitioning to coaching have achieved success. Former Manchester United star, fondly known as "Wazza," Wayne Rooney, despite a glittering career as a forward during his playing days, faced significant failure as a coach. After just 83 days in charge, he faced furious backlash from fans and was ultimately sacked, proving that success on the pitch doesn't necessarily translate to success in coaching.

Renowned former England and Manchester United star Wayne Rooney, who was adored by fans during his playing career, is remembered for iconic moments like his bicycle kick securing a Premier League title against Manchester City. However, being a great player doesn't automatically qualify one to be a successful coach. Rooney became the head coach of Championship team Birmingham City in early October last year, signing a 3.5-year contract. Shockingly, just 83 days into his tenure, Rooney was sacked.

Since Rooney took charge of Birmingham in October, the team's performance declined, plummeting from sixth to 20th in the league standings, putting them in danger of relegation. Rooney managed the team for 15 matches, achieving a record of 2 wins, 4 draws, and 9 losses, earning only 10 points. The fans couldn't bear it, and after a 3-0 defeat to Leeds United, chants of "Rooney out!" echoed through the stadium. The Birmingham fans wanted the legendary former Manchester United striker to leave the team and stop harming it.

Subsequently, Birmingham City officially announced Rooney's dismissal. Given the team's poor performance, it's fair to say that the decision to part ways was justified. However, Rooney seemed a bit resentful, expressing on social media: "Thanks to the club for the opportunity, and thank you to everyone for the support. Football is all about results – I accept that I didn’t get the results. However, I don’t think that 13 weeks is enough time to make the changes needed at the club. Good luck to Birmingham in the future, achieving the goals." Rooney believed that he wasn't given enough time and patience, but in all honesty, if Birmingham didn't change the coach, relegation seemed inevitable, and Rooney's departure was justified.

Kapil334

Rooney's coaching abilities seem to be average...

Jatin255

This is a typical harsh reality in the football world, indicating that transitioning from a player to a coach doesn't necessarily guarantee smooth success. Rooney's case illustrates that, despite his impressive performance as a player, managing a team requires additional skills, including tactical awareness, communication abilities, and managerial skills. The transition to coaching demands continuous learning and adaptation, rather than expecting overly idealized outcomes. Successful coaches often need to enhance their professional competence, excel in team management, and make wise decisions under pressure.

Jiten171

It's hard to say, I've never really liked Rooney. He lacks in both football and personal qualities, and overall, he's not someone I admire. Moreover, he has a sharp tongue and doesn't come across as a very pleasant person.

Samiksha

He performed reasonably well during his coaching tenure at Derby County, but the recent experience at Birmingham doesn't completely undermine his competence. However, there might not be many more chances for trial and error. If it doesn't work out next time, he may have to bid farewell to a career in coaching.

Iravan774

As a talented player with a sharp footballing mind, Rooney's versatility as a forward or midfielder underscores his potential to become an excellent coach. Many players who employed strategic thinking on the field have transitioned into successful head coaches after retirement. My first observation of Rooney's coaching career was during his time at Derby County. Initially, he served as both a player and a coach. He would actively participate in matches and simultaneously guide the team from the sidelines. Later, he retired as a player and assumed the role of Derby County's head coach.

Rooney's tenure at Derby County was relatively promising, successfully securing the team's survival in the league. Unfortunately, financial issues led to a deduction of 21 points for Derby County in the subsequent season, resulting in relegation. Rooney chose to leave the club at that point. During a period of unrest at Manchester United, there were voices suggesting Rooney as a potential successor to the managerial position. Rooney's coaching abilities at Derby County received positive recognition. However, he ultimately ventured to the United States, a country often deemed a footballing wilderness.

Upon returning to England after coaching in the U.S., Rooney's coaching performance, unexpectedly, seemed to regress. His stint at Birmingham did not yield favorable results. Nevertheless, considering Rooney's relatively young age, he has ample time for learning and growth. Given Rooney's intellectual approach to playing the game, many believe he has the potential to evolve into an outstanding head coach in the future.

Ritu77

Oh, so Rooney has become a coach now? I've seen him play before, and he was reportedly quite skilled. They say being good at study doesn't necessarily make you a good teacher, though...