There’s a new Plymouth Argyle manager in the works—and it’s someone we have heard of repeatedly in the EPL. Sometimes, players make great coaches; other times, ex-players and pundits are not qualified to step up and manage a team. But with this appointment, the former is true.
Plymouth has found a reliable and dedicated gaffer who has experience playing for Manchester United, operating as a player-coach for Derby, and coaching at a high level. What more could you ask for when it comes to a newly appointed leader for the 2024-2025 season?
Plymouth Secure New Manager in Ex-PL Great
✍️ We are delighted to announce the appointment of Wayne Rooney as our new Head Coach.
Welcome to Argyle, Wayne.#pafc
— Plymouth Argyle FC (@Argyle) May 25, 2024
Manchester United is one of the top teams in the Premier League. Despite having a disappointing season this year, they are arguably the most-followed club and have the most intense fan base. Back during the ‘golden years’, when Roy Keane and Gerard were on the team, another name stood out on the team sheet—Wayne Rooney.
Rooney was a Manchester United. He grew up with the club, scoring incredible goals and becoming an all-time club great. After playing, he made his first step into managing a team as a player-coach at Derby. Then, he progressed as he got older, managing Birmingham City and other top-tier teams in the EPL.
After a firing from Birmingham City due to poor performances and a low-table position, he was a free agent – and Plymouth came knocking. Rooney will surely be happy to right his wrongs from Birmingham and show everyone in the footballing world that he knows what he’s doing.
“Taking this role at Plymouth Argyle feels like the perfect next step in my career – and I would like to thank the Chairman and Board for the faith they have shown in me. This is an opportunity to be a part of an exciting project. I look forward to helping a squad of players to play expansive football – to entertain the Green Army.”
Rooney comes in to replace Foster, a short-term manager who was given only 90 days to prove that he could manage Plymouth. But, he fell short of the job.
Plymouth Argyle in the Championship
Plymouth Argyle F.C. are ranked 21st in the Championship after a disappointing season, barely escaping the narrow relegation zone. Huddersfield and Rotherham claimed the bottom two spots, earning only 45 and 27 points in the league, respectively, whereas Plymouth Argyle squeaked by with 51 points, narrowly edging out Rooney’s Birmingham squad.
Plymouth will have to step up their game if they hope to challenge the top contenders from this year. Teams such as Leeds United, Southampton, West Brom, and Norwich City, all of whom have recent Premier League experience.
Hopefully, Rooney can bring some scoring prowess and tactical awareness to his squad. Plymouth struggled to find the net this season, scoring only one goal per match in their last ten games. They suffered narrow defeats, including 1-0 to Millwall and 1-0 to Bristol City, and only narrowly claimed victories, like a 1-0 win over Leicester City or 1-1 draw against QPR.
About the Author
Emma is an athlete and sports fan who currently plays professional soccer. Growing up, she reached a high level in track and field, distance running, and soccer on both club and university teams.
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