Wayne Rooney’s stint as Plymouth Argyle’s head coach has ended following a dismal nine-match winless streak.
The Manchester United legend departs the Pilgrims with the team languishing at the bottom of the Championship table, four points adrift of safety.
Plymouth announced the decision on Monday, confirming that Rooney’s departure was a mutual agreement with the club’s board.
Rooney’s managerial career, which has seen him the helm of Derby County and DC United, now faces another setback as his tenure at Plymouth ends just months after his summer appointment.
Alongside Rooney, assistant coach Mike Phelan and first-team coach Stephen Ireland will also leave their roles.
In a statement released by the club, Rooney expressed his gratitude and reflected on his brief time with Plymouth.
“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 made the club such a special place, the players and fans for their efforts and support during my time as head coach. I wish them all the best for the future.
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“Thanks for making the games at Home Park so special; they are memories that we will share forever. 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 added.
Under Rooney’s leadership, Plymouth managed only four wins out of 23 matches this season.
Despite optimism following his arrival, the team’s inability to secure results led to mounting pressure and calls for change.
Fans expressed disappointment but acknowledged Rooney’s efforts to instil a positive footballing philosophy at the club.
A statement from Plymouth’s Chairman Simon Hallett read: “Wayne Rooney joined us with a wealth of experience and ambition, and we were hopeful of a successful season.
“Unfortunately, the results did not match the effort and commitment shown by Wayne and his staff. We part ways on good terms and wish him the very best in his future endeavours.”
Meanwhile, Rooney’s next steps in management remain uncertain as he contemplates his future after another challenging chapter in his managerial career.
