Wayne Rooney and D.C. United Part Ways After 9th MLS Coaching Change of the Season

Wayne Rooney is no longer the coach of D.C. United, as announced by the team on Saturday night.

D.C. United and Rooney have mutually agreed to go their separate ways, according to the team’s social media post. This makes D.C. United the ninth team in the MLS to change coaches this season.

Despite a 2-0 win on Saturday, D.C. United failed to qualify for the playoffs. In his only full season as coach, Rooney improved the team’s point tally, earning 40 points with a record of 10-10-14. However, the team’s hopes of making it to the playoffs were dashed when CF Montreal defeated the Portland Timbers 4-1.

This marks the fourth consecutive season that D.C. United has missed the playoffs, which equals the club’s previous record from 2008-2011.

Jason Levien, D.C. United’s CEO and co-chairman, stated on social media that the separation with Rooney will allow the team’s new general manager to implement fresh ideas and structure into their sporting operations. The first step will be finding a new head coach who aligns with the new philosophy.

Rooney was appointed as coach last year after managing Derby County in the English Championship for two years. Prior to that, he played for United as a designated player, appearing in 48 matches and scoring 23 goals with 15 assists. He was named to the MLS Best XI in 2018, an All-Star in 2019, and was a finalist for the MLS MVP award in 2018.

Levien expressed gratitude towards Rooney for his contributions to the club both as a player and coach, stating that he remains an important part of the D.C. United family and a cherished friend.