The Football Interview: Wayne Rooney Discusses His Career and Life
The Football Interview is a new series where prominent figures from sports and entertainment engage in candid and in-depth discussions about the nation’s favorite sport. Host Kelly Somers will delve into topics such as mindset, motivation, defining moments, career highlights, and personal reflections, providing insights into the individuals behind the athletes.
New episodes will be released on Saturdays through BBC iPlayer, BBC Sounds, and the BBC Sport website. Additionally, they will air on BBC One following Match of the Day.
Wayne Rooney is widely recognized as one of England's greatest strikers. He netted 53 goals in 120 appearances for the national team, secured five Premier League titles with Manchester United, and lifted the Champions League, Europa League, FA Cup, and League Cup during his illustrious career.
This season, Rooney will serve as a pundit on BBC's Match of the Day, providing his insights on the latest Premier League developments. Prior to this role, he sat down with Kelly Somers for the inaugural episode of The Football Interview , where they discussed his career, life outside of football, and family.
Watch the full Football Interview with Rooney on BBC iPlayer.
Kelly Somers: What does football mean to you?
Wayne Rooney: As a young boy, it was my dream to play football—whether at school, at home, or on the streets. The thrill of the game, the desire to win, and the adrenaline rush were immense. I was fortunate to have a long professional career, and now as a parent, I relish watching my children engage with football. It’s a passion that will always be part of my life.
KS: Can you recall your first team?
WR: Yes, it was the Copplehouse Colts, an under-nines team. I was around seven years old and scored a lot of goals. My mother and I would keep a record of the games on the fridge, noting down the scores and my goals. It was a special time, filled with excitement.
KS: Was there a pivotal moment that set you on your path?
WR: Definitely. When I was about 14, I was engaging in activities I shouldn't have been. Colin Harvey, the under-19s manager, saw me with a bag of cider and told me I was wasting my talent. He urged me to focus, saying I had the potential to play not just for Everton but for England. That conversation was a turning point for me, prompting me to concentrate solely on football.
KS: Who has had the most significant impact on your career?
WR: I can’t pinpoint just one person; my parents had a huge influence. I now appreciate the sacrifices they made when I take my kids to football. My mother didn’t drive, and my father worked, so I often traveled with my mother on public transport. As a child, I took their efforts for granted, but now I understand the dedication involved, especially with my own children’s commitments.
KS: You’ve played in many significant matches. If you could relive one and change the outcome, which would it be?
WR: I would choose the 2005 FA Cup final against Arsenal. We played exceptionally well but lost on penalties, a match we deserved to win. Also, the Euro 2008 qualifier against Croatia, which I didn’t play in, was tough. Watching from the bench as we lost was humiliating, especially knowing the repercussions for the team.
KS: Did you always intend to move into management or media after playing? What influenced your decision?
WR: Management was always a goal for me; I thrive on challenges. I understood the risks involved, but I was willing to take them. My management debut at Derby County was challenging due to the circumstances, but I believe we performed well. At DC United, we improved the team significantly, almost reaching the playoffs. My time at Birmingham was difficult, and looking back, I realize some decisions weren’t right. Eventually, I explored punditry and found it fulfilling, leading me to where I am today.
KS: What type of pundit can we expect you to be?
WR: I aim to be fair and honest. As a player, manager, and now pundit, I uphold the same values. Fans are perceptive; they don’t appreciate sugar-coating. I strive to provide an honest opinion, even if it might upset some players or managers. I understand now why pundits make certain comments, having faced criticism myself during my playing days.