Rooney to play for Derby from January
DERBY: Wayne Rooney will be leaving Major League Soccer after less than two seasons to return to play in England and be closer to his family.
The 33-year-old former England captain will remain at DC United until the end of the season before joining second-tier Championship team Derby County as player-coach from January.
Rooney has signed an 18-month contract that can be extended until the end of the 2021-22 season.
“I am very excited about the opportunity that Derby County have provided me with,’’ Rooney said.
“I am sure I can make a big contribution and can’t wait to meet everyone, especially the supporters. I am equally excited to begin my coaching career at Derby County working with both the first team and academy.’’
Rooney, who is the record goal scorer for Manchester United and England, had another two years remaining on the contract he signed with DC United after joining from Everton in 2018.
“After speaking to Wayne and understanding his difficult situation of being so far away from his family, we have accepted that this is the best decision for all parties,’’ said DC United co-chairmen Steve Kaplan and Jason Levien.
Derby have been out of the Premier League since 2008 and lost a play-off final in May to return to the top division.
Rooney’s former England teammate, Frank Lampard, was in charge of Derby last season before moving to manage Chelsea.
“Wayne Rooney is an extremely talented and top-class footballer,’’ said Phillip Cocu, who succeeded Lampard as Derby manager.
“He has enjoyed a wonderful career, both in club football and for England, and he still has so much to give as well.
“His credentials speak for themselves.”