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Wayne Rooney: From Football Star to Manager
Debut and Success at Manchester United
Wayne Rooney, the current manager of Birmingham City, made his debut at the age of 16 with Everton. At 17, he was called up to the England national team. During his time at Manchester United, Rooney played 559 matches and became the club’s all-time leading goal scorer, solidifying his status as a historical reference for the institution.
Struggles Off the Field
However, Rooney’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. The football star has faced a series of problems, mostly linked to alcohol consumption. In a recent podcast interview with British rugby legend Rob Barrow, Rooney opened up about some of the darker moments he experienced.
Battling Alcohol Addiction
“There were many times when alcohol became my escape,” Rooney confessed. “When I was 20, I would spend days at home drinking until I passed out. It was a way for me to try and overcome my problems.”
A Personal Struggle
Rooney admitted that he often felt ashamed and disappointed, which led him to isolate himself from others. He chose alcohol as a coping mechanism, even though there were people he could have turned to for support. “I decided not to reach out and tried to solve it on my own,” he said.
Consequences of Alcohol Abuse
Rooney’s struggles with alcohol abuse have had serious consequences, including strained relationships with his family. In 2017, he was arrested for drunk driving after exceeding the alcohol limit. In another incident, he caused a scene at a wedding while the England national team was staying at the same hotel. Additionally, he lost over 600 thousand euros in a casino in less than two hours.
A New Chapter as a Manager
Despite his past struggles, Rooney has turned his life around. After retiring as a player in 2021, he transitioned into coaching and took charge of Derby County in the English third division. Currently, he is the manager of Birmingham City in the Championship. Rooney’s journey serves as a reminder that even the most successful individuals can face personal battles.
One Response
Wayne Rooney’s career has undoubtedly been a rollercoaster ride, filled with remarkable triumphs on the pitch and personal battles off it. From his historic goalscoring record to his off-field issues, Rooney’s journey serves as a powerful reminder that success and struggles often go hand in hand. His determination to overcome obstacles and come out stronger is truly admirable.