Wayne Rooney resigns as Derby County manager

Former England and Manchester Unitedstriker Wayne Rooney has officially stepped down from his role as manager of Derby County.

The England legend, who is the country's all-time leading scorer with 53 goals, asked to relieved from his role with immediate effect due to issues with the club's new ownership.

"Over the course of the summer I have been closely following developments regarding the ownership of Derby County," Rooney wrote in a club statement.

"Today I met with the administrators to inform them of my decision that it was time for me to leave the club. In fairness to them, they tried tremendously hard to change my decision but my mind was made up.

"My time at the club has been a rollercoaster of emotions, both highs and lows, but I have to say that I have enjoyed the challenge."

Rooney fought a losing battle at Derby due to the club's financial issues.

After playing one season with the Rams, Rooney took on the role of player-manager following Philip Cocu's departure in November 2020.

During the 2021/22 season, the club were docked 21 points, 12 of them before the season began, due to entering administration and breaching financial rules. They were also forced to operate under a transfer embargo.

Rooney was praised for his work at the club, as at one point it looked as though he might save Derby from being relegated to League One, England's third division.

However defeats to QPR and Reading late in the season sealed their fate, with their relegation made official on Matchday 43.

Derby are another example of one of England's historic clubs falling into the abyss.

The team are most known for the Brian Clough era, in which they won the First Division (before the creation of the Premier League).

Despite facing massive difficulties during his time at Derby, Rooney made it clear there were no hard feelings, and wished them well.

"I will remember my time at Derby with great pride and affection and would like to thank all my staff, players and of course the fans for their incredible support," said Rooney.

"I will never forget you and hope to see you all again in the near future and in happier times."

"Finally, I am aware that the club still have interested parties who wish to take over the running of the club.

"To them I say this, Derby County is a great club with a great history and great fans. I wish you all the best and much success for the future."