Will Wayne Rooney Retire at Manchester United?
Various clubs have targeted Wayne Rooney for a while now, but the question is, will he play out the rest of his career in Manchester, or move on elsewhere.
Now age 31, Rooney is only a fraction of the player he used to be. He had a fantastic career at United, but has fallen out of the squad order with first-year manager Mourinho in charge now. However, this doesn’t mean that other clubs don’t have their eyes on him.
In his career at Manchester United, he has won five Premier League titles, one Champions League title, and also won the FA Cup just last season. In 548 appearances, Rooney has contributed 250 goals to the team.
Nevertheless, we aren’t here to discuss his entire career, but just what the last part of it will look like. Let’s breakdown some of the top destinations Rooney could end up at, and if there is a chance he stays right where he is.
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China
The rapidly growing Chinese Super League has been the final destination of many players, especially in more recent years. The insane transfer fees as well as the unbeatable wages make these clubs dream destinations for players looking to receive more game time, and make a load of money while they are at it.
Rooney fits into all of these categories. Chinese clubs have been looking at Rooney for some time now, and have even offered him £32 million per year to play in the Asian league. Investors in the clubs have been trying to work up the cash necessary for Rooney, who would undoubtedly cost them a fortune.
The lifestyle change would be difficult for someone like Wayne Rooney, considering he has lived in England his whole life, and has never shown much interest in leaving the country in the first place. It would be a difficult adjustment for him, but a possible one.
The MLS
Like most aging players, a move to America would make sense for Rooney. It certainly means more playtime for him, and while he may not get the same wages as the Chinese League may offer him, he will at least have some familiar western comforts.
The Englishman has been linked to numerous clubs in the states, including the Chicago Fire and DC United. These clubs definitely fit his persona, given both of whom are currently looking for a big time player to give their teams a much-needed boost in popularity. Should Rooney go to any of these clubs, he would stand out among the rest.
While these clubs wouldn’t be able to put forward the same kind of money that Chinese teams can, they offer some more fitting options for Rooney.
Manchester United
Of course there is always a possibility of him staying right where he is. While this scenario is less likely than the others, United fans could always hope, or not hope for this to play out. Despite what you think of Rooney, seeing him retire at his longtime club would be the most apt way to end his career.
Whether he retires earlier than expected, or just sticks around with limited play time, this could be Rooney’s club until the end.