Wayne Rooney has disclosed job he'd leave BBC for and return to football

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Wayne Rooney would only consider a return to management if he were handed a role within Michael Carrick's coaching setup at Manchester United . The former England international spent 13 years at United and played alongside the new permanent boss on numerous occasions.

Rooney was adored by supporters at Old Trafford and is regarded as one of the finest strikers of his era for both club and country, claiming 16 major trophies and a host of individual accolades.

He moved into management after hanging up his boots in 2021, progressing from player-manager to full-time gaffer at Derby County . Yet his coaching aspirations fell well short of his playing achievements, with the ex-United star confessing to harbouring regrets about his managerial journey.

Rooney told BBC Sport: "I think you always have regrets, and [I] reflect on what I've done. I think the biggest regret I have is the Birmingham City job, in terms of the timing of when I took over from John Eustace."

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The 40-year-old had subsequent spells at Birmingham City, DC United and Plymouth Argyle. He departed each club without lifting any silverware and also presided over Derby's drop to League One in 2022, despite receiving plaudits for his work amid challenging conditions.

Given these managerial setbacks, Rooney admitted he is unlikely to return to management. He responded: "Probably not," when questioned about a possible return to the touchline.

"Of course, I've never closed doors and never say never, but at the moment – where I am now, where my head space is – I wouldn't."

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Yet, it appears there is one position Rooney would consider taking the plunge for. He believes it is a "no-brainer" if he's presented with the opportunity to link up with Carrick at Old Trafford.

Addressing the prospect of the former club captain's appointment in January, he said: "Whether Michael goes in or if that's Fletch [Darren Fletcher] or John O'Shea or myself, it needs people who know the football club.

" Roy Keane - I know Roy has had his opinions, I said about Roy going in earlier in the season. Having people who know the club, who care for the club and understand what it takes to be a Manchester United player - that's where the club needs to be.

"The club has lost its identity, it's lost that family feel, if you like. Whether it's Ole [ Ole Gunnar Solskjaer ] or Michael, this is an opportunity to bring that back, bring the spirit of Manchester United back to the football club."

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When questioned whether he would team up with Carrick at United, Rooney added: "Of course I would. It's a no-brainer..

"I'm not begging a job here by the way. Just so everyone knows, if I was asked to go in of course I would. Appointing the manager is the most important thing."

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