Wayne Rooney leaves Plymouth Argyle after 7 months

Plymouth Argyle have confirmed the departure of manager Wayne Rooney by mutual consent.

Rooney joined Plymouth back in May but departs just seven months later, having won five of his 25 games in charge as the team fell to the bottom of the Championship, four points adrift of safety.

Among the final nails in Rooney’s coffin was a 4-0 thumping at the hands of a Coventry City side led by former England teammate Frank Lampard.

“Plymouth Argyle can confirm that the club and Head Coach Wayne Rooney have mutually agreed to part ways with immediate effect,” a club statement read. “Departing the club with Rooney will be Assistant Head Coach Mike Phelan and first team coach Simon Ireland.”

In a message to the fans, Rooney added: “I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Board of Plymouth Argyle Football Club, in particular Simon Hallett and Neil Dewsnip who I shared great relationships with.

“Thanks also to all the staff who made me feel welcome and who make the club such a special place, the players and fans for their efforts and support during my time as Head Coach and I wish them all the best for the future.

“To the Green Army thanks for making the games at Home Park so special, they are memories that we will share forever.

“I would also like to give a special mention to my coaching staff Kevin Nancekivell, Simon Ireland, Darryl Flahavan and Mike Phelan for their knowledge, dedication, help and support.

“Plymouth Argyle will always hold a special place in my heart, and I will continue to look out for and take interest in their results.”

Rooney is now on the hunt for the fifth job of his managerial career, having taken charge of Derby County, D.C. United, Birmingham City and Plymouth since he first entered the dugout in 2021.