03 September 2023 , 19:29
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Wayne Rooney sent a subtle message to his bosses at D.C. United as he celebrated a milestone in his coaching career.
The former England captain has now completed his UEFA Pro Licence badges in a major marker for his fledgling spell in the dugout. Having the 18-month course under his belt will mean he can now coach in the top European continental competitions.
That will not mean a great deal during his time out in the US but the coveted qualification will be a big draw on his CV for potential future suitors, and could be a sign he's open to returning to Europe. Taking to Instagram, the ex-Manchester United superstar spoke of his pride after he received his certificate from UEFA.
In a post on the social network, he said: "Delighted to have finally completed my UEFA Pro Licence. Was a long process which goes back into my playing days." Adding a classy nod to an unsung hero who has helped him along the way, the Red Devils legend added: "Want to thank Neil Bailey for all his help over the years."
The qualification may have come at a crucial time for the D.C. United head coach as he hopes to have his contract extended. His current deal at Audi Field only runs until December but Rooney and agent Paul Stretford requested talks two months ago.
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As it stands, the pair have not heard anything back from the four-time MLS Cup victors, however. As the ex- Everton sensation pointed out, this leaves him in something of a tricky situation as he looks to plan for next season.
Speaking to the Washington Post, he admitted that he is hoping for answers sooner rather than later. He said previously:"I am slightly disappointed and frustrated there has been no contact for two months.
"We asked about a new deal. We can sit down and talk about it - we haven’t heard back. Either way, I can take whatever the situation is. I was hoping we would have, either way, at least spoken about it, that hasn’t been the case.
Wayne Rooney's future at DC United is still uncertain ahead of the end of his contract“We asked to sit down and speak, because planning for next season needs to go ahead. So we asked two months ago where everything was at, are we moving forward or not moving forward — if that’s the case from their point of view — and we haven’t heard back."
Former teammates from his club and international career took to the comments to congratulate the 37-year-old on his achievement. Former Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard said: "Well done Wazza", while his former United teammate Edwin van der Sar also recalled his time training for his badges alongside Rooney.
He said: "I remember those evening sessions at Carrington [Training Ground] with us trying to produce sessions for the U12s or something with Rio [Ferdinand], Carras [Michael Carrick] and Michael Owen to names a few.."