Wayne Rooney’s tenure as Plymouth Argyle manager has come to an end after just seven months, as the club announced his departure by mutual consent. The decision follows a difficult period for the Championship side, who sit at the bottom of the table after 23 games. Despite being appointed in May on a three-year contract, Rooney’s stint at the club has been cut short due to a string of poor results, including a winless run of nine games, six of which ended in defeat.
Plymouth’s disappointing form under Rooney culminated in back-to-back away losses to Coventry City and Oxford United over the Christmas period. These results left the club four points adrift of safety, prompting the board to act decisively before their upcoming New Year’s Day fixture against Bristol City. First-team coach Kevin Nancekivell and club captain Joe Edwards will take temporary charge of the team.
In a statement released on Plymouth Argyle’s website, Rooney expressed gratitude to the club’s leadership and supporters. “I would like to take this opportunity to thank the board of Plymouth, in particular Simon Hallett and Neil Dewsnip, who I shared great relationships with,” he said. “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.”
Rooney also addressed the club’s fanbase, affectionately known as the Green Army, saying: “Thanks for making the games at Home Park so special. They are memories that we will share forever. 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.” He also extended his appreciation to his coaching staff, including Kevin Nancekivell, Simon Ireland, Darryl Flahavan, and Mike Phelan, for their dedication and support during his time at the club.
This marks another setback in Rooney’s managerial career, raising questions about his future in coaching. His departure from Plymouth follows a pattern of short-lived managerial roles. Rooney was sacked from his previous position at Birmingham City on January 2, 2024, after less than three months in charge. Before that, he left DC United by mutual consent in October 2023. His first managerial role came at Derby County in November 2020, where he faced significant challenges, including the club’s relegation to League One following a 21-point deduction for entering administration. He resigned in June 2022 after Derby’s relegation.
While Rooney’s playing career as a record-breaking forward for Manchester United and England brought him immense success, his transition into management has been fraught with difficulties. Despite his struggles, Rooney’s passion for football remains evident, and he may yet seek another opportunity to prove himself in the coaching realm. For now, Plymouth Argyle must regroup under interim leadership as they fight to salvage their Championship season.
