Recently Amazon Prime released their official trailer for Rooney, a documentary that charts the story of Wayne Rooney, one of the world’s biggest soccer stars who broke records for Manchester United, England, and had a successful spell here in the MLS with D.C. United.
Directed by BAFTA award-winning filmmaker Matt Smith, ‘Rooney’ hits screens in February and brings the viewer closer to the soccer star than ever before as he recalls some of the most significant parts of his career and life, on and off the pitch.
While fans here in the U.S. recall his time in the capital city, the story of his career in England will be remembered forever, much like another England hero who had a successful spell in the MLS, David Beckham. While the former L.A. Galaxy midfielder was one of England’s most influential players, Rooney was the deadliest striker England has ever seen.
Some would say the boy from a small district of Liverpool was destined to be a star footballer despite a tough upbringing. He played for the academy of his boyhood club, Premier League club, and Everton, and his talent was noticeable right away. As mentioned by NBC, he made his full debut in the top division of English soccer at the age of just 16, and within a year, the world knew his name. Five days before his 17th birthday, he scored the goal which catapulted him to stardom. Rooney curled the ball over the head of England goalkeeper David Seaman into the net from 25 yards in the last minute of a game against Arsenal, a strike that proved to be the winner.
Rooney made his international debut for England just four months after his Premier League introduction. His stock was so high it seemed like it would only be a matter of time before he was snapped up by one of the world’s biggest teams. That proved to be the case when Manchester United agreed on a deal of just under £30m ($40.2m), the highest ever fee for a teenager at the time.
At Old Trafford, he became one of the best players the club has ever seen, breaking numerous records and winning many trophies. After 13 years, he moved back ‘home’ to Everton for one year before moving here to the MLS, to D.C. United. He was 33, but his talent was still there for all to see; he scored spectacular goals, created numerous for others, and his drive and enthusiasm were infectious. After two years and 23 goals for D.C., the call of home was too much. Rooney announced that he would leave to return to England, one level below the Premier League as player-coach of Derby County.
After six goals in 30 appearances, Rooney was offered a shock move into management, one which he took with both hands, and the Manchester United legend showed his commitment by retiring from playing the game. Since then, Derby County has often been underdogs in the Ladbrokes live betting markets, but are surprising many with their spirited fight against relegation. But it’s clear to see the team epitomize the character of their manager; they’re full of fight, determination and always strive to be the best against all odds.
The documentary offers a never seen before look into the world of the former D.C. United player’s life, telling the tale of what it was like through Rooney’s early years as a footballer, how he dealt with being one of the best soccer players in the world, and more.
All will be revealed on February 11th.