Wayne Rooney has hit back at critics who claim his move to Major League Soccer is bad for his career.
Rooney, who played for Washington from 2018-20, was unveiled on Tuesday night as DC United’s new head coach after signing an £800,000-a-year contract.
The move has raised eyebrows among some supporters who had expected Rooney to rise up the management ladder in England after a impressive enchantment in stricken Derby County†
But Rooney, the Manchester United and England record scorer, is confident he is on the right track. “I’ve seen a few articles, especially in England, about this being a possible step backwards in my management career,” he said. “I really think that’s a bit disrespectful to this competition.”
His return to America comes just two weeks after his shocking departure from Derby, who were relegated from the championship last season.
Still, Rooney left with his stock high as it took until April for the club, who suffered a deduction of 21 pointsto confirm their relegation.
“Coming back here to MLS, back to DC United, has been an exciting challenge for me, something that I think can develop as a coach,” he added.
“The team needs to improve, I think that’s clear to everyone, and I really think with my ability to develop young players – obviously we’re working hard to get a few new players in – we can build this club.” really succeed. again successful ways.
“It will take a lot of hard work, but that’s what I’m here to do and really improve the team.”
For now, Rooney has to deal with the visit from Columbus Crew as he plots a fortune turn for a side bottom of the 14-team Eastern Conference.
But in the long run, the return across the pond is all part of a bigger plan. “I am an ambitious person.
“One day I want to manage at the highest level, and this is part of that process in terms of coming here and trying to develop this club, trying to be successful here, but also developing myself as a manager.”