Wayne Rooney, the former Manchester United and England captain, celebrated his 40th birthday on Friday, October 24, 2025. As he enters his fifth decade, Rooney's long-serving agent, Paul Stretford, has spoken about the player's remarkable journey, highlighting his growth and inner strength. Stretford, who has been with Rooney since his emergence as a teenage prodigy at Everton, expressed immense pride in the self-assured man he has become, one who has faced his demons and challenges head-on.
Rooney's career began at Everton, where he joined the youth team at the age of nine. He made his professional debut in 2002 at 16. After two seasons with the Toffees, he moved to Manchester United in 2004 for a reported £25.6 million. During his 13 years at Old Trafford, Rooney established himself as one of the club's all-time greats, scoring a record 253 goals in all competitions. He won 16 major trophies, including five Premier League titles, an FA Cup, a Champions League, a Europa League, and a FIFA Club World Cup.
In addition to his club success, Rooney also enjoyed a distinguished international career. He earned 120 caps for England, a record for an outfield player. He also scored 53 goals, which was a national team record until it was surpassed by Harry Kane.
Despite his achievements, Stretford believes that Rooney's qualities have often been undervalued. He acknowledged the pressures and mental health issues that Rooney dealt with throughout his career. Stretford said he is beyond proud of the way Rooney has overcome his challenges to become the man he is today.
After leaving Manchester United in 2017, Rooney returned to Everton for a season before joining D.C. United in the MLS. He later had a spell with Derby County, where he also began his managerial career.
Rooney's transition into management has had its challenges. He served as manager for Derby County, D.C. United, Birmingham City, and Plymouth Argyle. He has voiced his ambition to remain involved with management despite recent setbacks. Rooney is currently without a club, after his time as head coach of Plymouth Argyle came to an end in late 2024. He has expressed openness to roles with an U21 team or as a coach, emphasizing his desire to continue learning and developing.
Despite the challenges, Stretford remains a constant figure in Rooney's life, offering guidance and support. Their relationship is described as more of a partnership than a standard agent agreement. Stretford takes pride in his role in the life of one of England's greatest players. As Rooney turns 40, his legacy as a player is secure, and his journey in management is just beginning.
