Wayne Rooney was dismissed as Plymouth Argyle’s head coach on Tuesday after just seven months in charge of the struggling Championship club. The 39-year-old former England and Manchester United striker was appointed in May but leaves with Plymouth sitting at the bottom of the English second tier, having won only four of their 23 games this season.
Rooney’s final match was a 2-0 defeat to Oxford United on Sunday, which extended Argyle’s winless streak to nine matches.
In a statement, Plymouth Argyle confirmed that both the club and Rooney had mutually agreed to part ways with immediate effect. “We would like to thank Wayne and his team for all their efforts and wish them well for the future,” the club said.
Rooney took over at Plymouth after a brief 83-day stint at Birmingham, which was relegated from the Championship last season. He has also managed MLS side DC United and Derby County.
In the club’s statement, Wayne Rooney expressed his gratitude, saying, “I would like to take this opportunity to thank the board of Plymouth. I also want to thank all the staff who made me feel welcome and who contribute to making the club such a special place, as well as the players and fans for their efforts and support during my time as head coach. I wish them all the best for the future.”
The 38-year-old Wayne Rooney had a successful playing career, winning five Premier League titles and a Champions League trophy. He is also England’s most-capped outfield player, with 120 appearances.
Plymouth announced that assistant coach Kevin Nancekivell and club captain Joe Edwards will take charge of the team for Wednesday’s Championship match against Bristol City.