It’s official. The China rumours have come to nought, and Wayne Rooney will remain a Manchester United player.
Rooney was moved to clarify his future following speculation about a switch to the Chinese Super League, and has confirmed he has no plans to leave Old Trafford.
It remains to be seen whether he is just extending his stay until the summer, or whether he intends to see out his playing career with United.
As for the news itself, it wasn’t entirely unexpected.
#Rooney dispels rumours re his #MUFC exit
I doubt it's posturing
I earlier overheard from someone v close to situation that he's staying put— Jønathan Shrager (@JonathanShrager) February 23, 2017
After all, it certainly seems to make sense for the England man.
https://twitter.com/Chriswin4/status/834823453052174336
Rooney staying till the end of the season, right move. He could add more trophies to his CV and useful squad player with so many fixtures.
— Hesham Bilal-Hafiz (@hesham786) February 23, 2017
Few would be surprised if he decides to end his United stint in the summer, however, particularly as he may be keen to ensure he has regular playing time in the lead-up to the 2018 World Cup.
Rooney has already stated that he plans to end his international career after that tournament, and the more frequently he is playing at club level, the more likely he is to have a big part to play in that tournament.
https://twitter.com/office_monkey/status/834818137308684288
Rooney should leave at the end of the season with a proper farewell ..not like this
— Pranav (@prrannavvv) February 23, 2017
So, where might he end up next? China is still an option, of course, as is MLS, but many seem convinced he will stay closer to home.
Right discussion for his family and himself and maybe a move to his boyhood favourites Everton in the future #Rooney
— martin teNnyson (@sticktownman) February 23, 2017
https://twitter.com/JamesBishop97/status/834828028165423105
https://twitter.com/declancullen_/status/834820714427478017
Not a shock at all to see Rooney at least stay until the end of the season. Will go MLS or back to Everton.
— Red Nev (@SirZlatan9) February 23, 2017
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