Manchester United has planned a nostalgic return to Old Trafford for their all-time leading goalscorer, Wayne Rooney, next month. The club has confirmed that Rooney will participate in a charity legends match against Celtic, marking his first appearance on the iconic pitch since playing for Everton in 2017.
Rooney, now the manager of Championship side Plymouth Argyle, will join a star-studded squad led by United legend Bryan Robson. The lineup will feature former teammates including Michael Carrick, Darren Fletcher, Paul Scholes, Nicky Butt, Dimitar Berbatov, and Antonio Valencia. The club scheduled the match for Saturday, September 7, at 2 pm, to coincide with an international break.
The fixture holds special significance for Rooney, who has long harbored a fondness for Celtic. Reflecting on his connection to the Scottish club, the 38-year-old recalled how his family has always supported Celtic and passed that passion down to his children. “My family and I have always followed Celtic since I was a boy,” Rooney reminisced, remembering his pride in captaining England to victory over Scotland at Celtic Park in 2013.
Currently, Rooney’s focus is on guiding Plymouth Argyle through their Championship campaign. His tenure began with a tough 4-0 defeat away to Sheffield Wednesday, after which he admitted to having some “harsh words” with his players. However, Rooney quickly bounced back, securing his first win with a 3-0 victory over Cheltenham Town in the Carabao Cup, followed by a 1-1 draw against Hull City.
Rooney previously managed Derby County, MLS side DC United, and Birmingham City and remains committed to his long-term career ambitions. The United legend has made no secret of his desire to one day manage Manchester United or his boyhood club, Everton. “Managing Manchester United or Everton is the aim,” Rooney told BBC Sport, emphasizing that he is determined to take the necessary steps to position himself for such a role in the next decade.
Rooney’s return to Old Trafford will undoubtedly be an emotional occasion for fans and players alike, as they celebrate the legacy of one of United’s greatest ever players.
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