Wayne Rooney leaves DC United

Manchester United legend and former DC United head coach Wayne Rooney
Manchester United legend and former DC United head coach Wayne Rooney. Photo by Shutterstock.

Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has left his role as head coach of DC United.

The decision between Rooney and the club to “mutually agree to part ways” was confirmed after they were eliminated from MLS play-off contention on Saturday night.

“It’s the right time. I’ve done everything I can to get this club into the play-offs,” said the 37-year-old.

“It’s not a single thing that’s happened. It’s about timing.”

“We have spoken with Wayne and agreed it is best for us to part ways at this time,” said DC United chief executive and co-chairman Jason Levien.

“This decision creates the avenue for our next general manager to have the full opportunity to impart a new philosophy and structure onto our sporting operations, which begins with the critical identification of a head coach who will best align with this.

“We are grateful to Wayne Rooney for all he has done for our club and for soccer in the nation’s capital, first as a DC United player and captain and most recently as our coach.”