DC United parts ways with head coach Wayne Rooney

08/10/2023 23:38

D.C. United will not be part of the 2023 MLS Cup Playoffs and now have a major decision to make in regard to its coaching staff for 2024.

Wayne Rooney will not return as head coach of the Black and Red, the club announced Saturday. DC United claimed a 2-0 victory over NYCFC on Saturday, but will finish outside of the playoff picture after completing their 34-match schedule.

"We have spoken with Wayne and agreed it is best for us to part ways at this time. This decision creates the avenue for our next General Manager to have the full opportunity to impart a new philosophy and structure onto our sporting operations, which begins with the critical identification of a Head Coach who will best align with this," said Jason Levien CEO and Co-Chairman of D.C. United.

"We are grateful to Wayne Rooney for all he has done for our club and for soccer in the Nation's Capital, first as a D.C. United player and captain and most recently as our coach. He remains an important part of the D.C. United family and a valued and cherished friend." 

Rooney was appointed DC United head coach in July 2022 and improved the team’s point total in 2023 despite them falling short of the playoffs. Christian Benteke and Mateusz Klich were among the European signings under Rooney’s spell as head coach.

A former standout Designated Player for DC United, Rooney scored 23 goals and registered 15 assists in 48 appearances. He was voted into the MLS Best XI in 2018, was named an All-Star in 2019, and was an MLS MVP finalist in 2018.

DC United will now begin their offseason preparations early.