Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has firmly rejected the possibility of Xabi Alonso becoming the club’s next permanent manager following the recent dismissal of Ruben Amorim. In the wake of Amorim’s exit, the Red Devils appointed former midfielder Michael Carrick as interim head coach to lead the team through the conclusion of the current campaign.
Carrick faces an immediate baptism of fire this Saturday as he prepares his side for a high-stakes Manchester derby at Old Trafford.
While the club’s leadership reportedly monitors long-term targets for a summer appointment, names like Thomas Tuchel and Oliver Glasner have emerged as potential frontrunners. Alonso’s recent departure from Real Madrid sparked speculation about a move to Manchester, especially after his historic Bundesliga triumph with Bayer Leverkusen. However, Rooney maintains that Alonso’s deep-rooted ties to Liverpool represent an insurmountable barrier, suggesting the Spaniard would likely remain unattached while awaiting a future opportunity at Anfield.
Rooney instead identified Thomas Tuchel as the ideal candidate to restore the club’s elite status. He argued that the current England manager possesses the necessary Premier League experience and a proven track record of delivering major trophies. Despite winning only once in their previous six league outings, United remains within striking distance of the top four, trailing Liverpool by just three points as they fight to secure Champions League qualification.
Rooney shared his thoughts on The Wayne Rooney Show: “No chance it’s Alonso, no. Before Liverpool, I really admired Klopp, but you couldn’t bring him in or Alonso for that reason. I just don’t think you can. Alonso did really well at Leverkusen, but I think it’s more likely he’ll just sit and wait rather than Arne Slot leaving. Tuchel is the one I prefer. I just think he knows the Premier League, he’s won trophies, and he’s doing well with the England team. Time will tell.”
