Picture Credit: Twitter
In a significant development, Derby Country's manager Wayne Rooney has stepped down from the position after 17 months of association. The 36-year-old former Everton and Manchester United player became the club's manager in January last year after retiring from the game. Notably, Rooney finished 23rd with Derby in the Championship for the 2021-22 season as the club gained 34 points and had a 21-point deduction for breaching EFL accounting rules.
Taking to Twitter, the club notified about Wayne Rooney's decision by releasing a statement which stated that Rooney has confirmed that he wishes to be relieved of his duties as first-team manager with immediate effect. In the statement, the former footballer was quoted stating that the administration at the club tried hard to stop him, but he was firmed with his decision.
"Throughout the Summer, I have been closely following developments regarding the ownership of Derby County. In fairness to them, they tried tremendously hard to change my decision but my mind was made up. My time at the club has been a rollercoaster of emotions, both highs and lows, but I have to say that I have enjoyed the challenge,” Wayne Rooney said.
Wayne Rooney further opined that the club desperately needs fresh leadership with fresh energy and not affected by the events that have happened over the last eighteen months. "I spent some great time at Derby with great pride and affection and would like to thank all my staff, players and of course the fans for their incredible support," he concluded.
Wayne Rooney also wished 'all the best' and success for the future for all the stakeholders who have expressed their wish to take over the running of the club. Responding to Wayne Rooney's decision, Derby Country issued a statement which stated that the administration is very disappointed that Wayne has taken the difficult decision to leave the club. "Although, we spent some time today trying to persuade him to stay but understand his reasons for wanting to go," the statement read.