Wayne Rooney is back in the headlines, not for a managerial comeback but for a high-profile media move. Just seven months after parting ways with Plymouth Argyle, the Manchester United and England legend has reportedly signed a two-year deal worth £800,000 with the BBC. Rooney will become a regular face on the iconic football highlights program, Match of the Day.
The 39-year-old has transitioned from the touchline to the TV screen, reinforcing his growing media presence following multiple coaching stints and regular punditry work. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup on the horizon, Rooney is now poised to play a pivotal role in the BBC’s football coverage moving forward.
Wayne Rooney’s New Role: Key Details
- Full Name: Wayne Mark Rooney
- Age: 39
- Nationality: English
- New Role: BBC Pundit – Match of the Day
- Contract Value: £800,000 over 2 years
- Extension Option: Additional 2 years
- Role Start: July 2025
- Other Media Work: Amazon Prime, The Overlap, Soccer Aid, MOTD
- Recent Managerial Role: Plymouth Argyle (till December 2024)
- Coaching Record: Derby, D.C. United, Birmingham City, Plymouth Argyle
- World Cup Coverage: Included in 2026 BBC coverage
From the Dugout to the Studio: Rooney’s Post-Playing Journey
Wayne Rooney retired from professional football in 2021 after a legendary career with Everton, Manchester United, and England. Shortly after hanging up his boots, he moved into management, taking over at Derby County in a challenging financial situation. He later managed D.C. United, Birmingham City, and most recently, Plymouth Argyle, where he was dismissed in December 2024 after a disappointing run of results.
Despite his coaching setbacks, Rooney remained in demand in the media world. Over the last year, Wayne Rooney has been a frequent pundit on Amazon Prime, The Overlap, and BBC’s Match of the Day. His insight and experience as one of football’s all-time greats have made him a respected voice off the pitch.
Earlier this year, Rooney expressed a desire to continue in management, though he stressed the importance of finding the “right club” and being in the “right environment.” He even said he would be open to coaching youth teams or returning as an assistant coach to further develop his skills.
However, reports now suggest that Rooney has pivoted fully into the media sphere with a long-term contract. According to The Sun, Wayne Rooney has signed a two-year deal worth £800,000 to become a full-time pundit on Match of the Day, with the option to extend for another two years. He will also contribute to the BBC’s 2026 World Cup coverage in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
A New Chapter in Rooney’s Career Begins
The BBC’s move to bring Wayne Rooney onboard comes as they restructure their Match of the Day lineup following Gary Lineker’s early departure amid controversy. Rooney’s appointment signals a fresh direction, with presenters like Kelly Cates, Mark Chapman, and Gabby Logan sharing hosting duties.
Rooney’s transition to a full-time TV role is being seen as both strategic and high-profile. Despite failing to make a lasting impact in management—never surpassing a 29% win rate at any club—Wayne Rooney remains a colossal figure in English football. His vast experience, from winning Champions League titles to captaining England, lends authenticity to his analysis.
In June 2025, Rooney even returned to the pitch for Soccer Aid and continued to provide Champions League punditry for Amazon Prime. He also reportedly turned down an offer to manage non-league side Macclesfield Town, suggesting his focus had shifted away from coaching.
While some fans may still hope to see him return to the dugout in the future, it seems clear that the next chapter of Wayne Rooney’s career will be written in front of the camera.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is Wayne Rooney’s new job in 2025?
Wayne Rooney has signed a two-year contract with the BBC to become a regular pundit on Match of the Day. He will also feature in their coverage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Q2: How much is Wayne Rooney earning from his BBC punditry deal?
Rooney is reportedly earning £800,000 over two years from his new role on Match of the Day, with an option to extend for another two years.
Q3: Why did Wayne Rooney leave coaching after Plymouth Argyle?
Rooney left Plymouth Argyle in December 2024 after a disappointing run. Since then, he shifted focus to punditry and media appearances, opting for a more stable role in football broadcasting.
Q4: What other media work has Wayne Rooney done?
In addition to the BBC, Wayne Rooney has worked with Amazon Prime, The Overlap, and Soccer Aid. His punditry roles have been well-received for their insight and honesty.