Derby County have confirmed that Wayne Rooney will join in January in a player-coach role.
England’s all-time record-goalscorer will see out the 2019 MLS season with DC United before completing his switch to the Championship side.
It will bring an end to his 18-month spell in America having left Everton for DC United in 2018.
“Derby County is delighted to announce that England’s record goal-scorer Wayne Rooney will join the club from January 2020,” a statement read on the club’s official website.
“The 33-year-old will arrive from Major League Soccer outfit DC United on an initial 18-month contract until the summer of 2021, with the option of a further year.
“As well as penning a playing contract with Derby, Rooney will join the club as a coach and continue to develop his coaching credentials in preparation for a potential managerial career.
“Rooney, who scored 53 times in 120 appearances for his country, is signing for Derby having won an incredible 16 honours in club football to date.
“With over 700 appearances and 300 goals to his name in club football, including a record 253 for Manchester United, Rooney is one of the biggest and most recognisable names in world football.
“As well as displaying his undoubted footballing quality on the pitch, Rooney has also demonstrated his leadership skills by wearing the captain’s armband for both club and country.
“Rooney, who will be assigned squad number 32 once he joins the Rams, will see out the 2019 MLS season with DC United before returning to the UK.”
Derby County x @WayneRooney. ⚪⚫#WR32
— Derby County (@dcfcofficial) August 6, 2019
On the move, Derby boss Phillip Cocu said: “Wayne Rooney is an extremely talented and top-class footballer.
“It is an exciting prospect for him to be joining Derby County and he can bring so much to this squad, both on and off the pitch. He has enjoyed a wonderful career, both in club football and for England, and he still has so much to give as well.
“His credentials speak for themselves. But to have a player with his leadership, skill, experience, character and work ethic will be huge for us. He knows what it takes to succeed as a player and I have no doubt he will have a positive impact right across the club.
“The inspiration and motivation this can generate is massive for all of our players from the first team right through to the youngsters in the Academy. It is entirely in keeping with, and in support of, the club’s philosophy and approach.
“I am looking forward to working with Wayne from the start of next year and welcoming him to the club.”
Rooney added: “I am very excited about the opportunity that Derby County have provided me with.
“I am looking forward to joining Phillip Cocu, his coaching staff and the first-team squad from the start of January. I am sure I can make a big contribution and can’t wait to meet everyone, especially the supporters.
“I am equally excited to begin my coaching career at Derby County working with both the first team and Academy.
“I must also take this opportunity to thank DC United, their owners, executives and supporters who have been superb to work with. I want them to know that I will give my all in support of our push for the play-offs.”
