Wayne Rooney has mutually parted ways with Plymouth Argyle after just seven months in charge, the club confirmed. Appointed as head coach in May, the 39-year-old departs with the team at the bottom of the Championship standings, four points from safety after 23 matches. Plymouth’s recent defeats—2-0 to Oxford and 4-0 to Coventry—prompted the decision.
In a statement released on the club’s official website, Rooney expressed his gratitude: “I would like to thank the board of Plymouth, particularly Simon Hallett and Neil Dewsnip, for the great relationships we shared. Thanks also to the staff for making me feel welcome, as well as the players and fans for their efforts and support throughout my tenure.”
Rooney also praised the Green Army, saying, “To the Green Army, thank you for making the games at Home Park so special—those are memories I will cherish forever.”
He gave a special mention to his coaching team, including Kevin Nancekivell, Simon Ireland, Darryl Flahavan, and Mike Phelan, for their “knowledge, dedication, help, and support.” Rooney concluded, “Plymouth Argyle will always hold a special place in my heart, and I will continue to follow the club’s progress with interest.”
Following Rooney’s departure, first-team coach Kevin Nancekivell and club captain Joe Edwards will take charge for Plymouth’s upcoming New Year’s Day home fixture against Bristol City.
The club issued a statement confirming Rooney’s departure, noting, “Plymouth Argyle can confirm that the club and head coach Wayne Rooney have mutually agreed to part ways with immediate effect. Assistant head coach Mike Phelan and first-team coach Simon Ireland will also depart. We thank Wayne and his team for their efforts and wish them all the best for the future.”
The club added that updates on the new first-team management staff would be provided in due course.
