Manchester United great Wayne Rooney announces exit from Derby

Wayne Rooney has left his role as manager of crisis club Derby County, with the League One club confirming his departure.

The former Manchester United forward had been in charge at Pride Park since 2020. Rooney’s spell saw the club plunged into crisis, with Derby going into administration and being relegated from the Championship last season.

Despite their precarious standing amid the search for new owners, Rooney had earned plaudits for his management of the club, and had given numerous assurances over his commitment to stay on following relegation. But United’s all-time leading scorer has now informed Derby he wishes to be relieved of his duties, with the League One side confirming his departure on Friday.

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In a statement, Rooney said: “Over the course of the summer I have been closely following developments regarding the ownership of Derby County.

“Today I met with the administrators to inform them of my decision that it was time for me to leave the club. 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.

“Personally, I feel the club now needs to be led by someone with fresh energy and not affected by the events that have happened over the last eighteen months. I will remember my 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. I will never forget you and hope to see you all again in the near future and in happier times.

“Finally, I am aware