Wayne Rooney’s second period at D.C. United — this time as head coach — got here to an finish Saturday as he and the membership determined to mutually half methods following their elimination from playoff rivalry, the membership introduced. Regardless of defeating New York Metropolis FC 2-0, the crew’s path in the direction of the playoff was formally closed with different outcomes across the league.
Rooney has been head coach of the membership since July of 2022 after additionally taking part in for the crew from 2018 to 2019 previous to turning into a participant coach after which supervisor of Derby County. Whereas Rooney’s contract solely went by means of this season, there was an choice for a mutual extension.
It has been a tumultuous season for the black and crimson with ahead Taxiarchis Fountas contract terminated after the league discovered allegations that he used a racial slur in the direction of a teammate as “credible.” A employees member additionally was terminated for using a discriminatory gesture in a crew picture. Whereas these aren’t issues below Rooney’s management, they do paint an image of the scenario that he was in in Washington D.C.
“We have now spoken with Wayne and agreed it’s best for us to half methods presently. This determination creates the avenue for our subsequent Basic Supervisor to have the complete alternative to impart a brand new philosophy and construction onto our sporting operations, which begins with the vital identification of a head coach who will finest align with this,” mentioned Jason Levien CEO and co-chairman of D.C. United in a club statement. “We’re grateful to Wayne Rooney for all he has completed for our membership and for soccer within the nation’s capital, first as a D.C. United participant and captain and most not too long ago as our coach. He stays an essential a part of the D.C. United household and a valued and cherished buddy.”
After this season, regardless of their turnaround within the second half to push for a playoff place behind the robust type of Christian Benteke, D.C. United are planning to maneuver in a distinct route after lacking playoffs for the fourth consecutive season. The Black and Pink have now had three completely different head coaches together with interim managers since Ben Olsen’s departure in 2020.
