Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has categorically dismissed the possibility of Xabi Alonso taking over as the club's next permanent manager, stating there is "no chance" the Spaniard will succeed the sacked Ruben Amorim.
Rooney's Verdict on United's Managerial Search
The former United and England captain made his blunt assessment on his podcast, The Wayne Rooney Show, as speculation intensifies over who will be appointed at Old Trafford this summer. Michael Carrick is currently in interim charge until the season's end after Amorim's dismissal earlier this month, with his first match a daunting Premier League clash against Manchester City this Saturday.
Despite Alonso's phenomenal success at Bayer Leverkusen, where he guided the club to a historic first Bundesliga title, Rooney believes the former Liverpool midfielder will not be tempted by a move to Manchester. "No chance it's Alonso, no," Rooney stated. He suggested that Alonso's strong links to Liverpool, as a former player and a potential future managerial target for the Reds, make a switch to United unthinkable.
Tuchel Emerges as Rooney's Preferred Choice
Instead of Alonso, Rooney has thrown his support behind another candidate linked with the role: current England boss Thomas Tuchel. Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner is also an early favourite, with both managers out of contract in the summer.
"Tuchel is the one for me," Rooney explained. "I just think he knows the Premier League, he's won trophies, he's doing well at England. Time will tell." Rooney's endorsement highlights Tuchel's proven track record in England, having previously won the Champions League with Chelsea.
Other high-profile names are also in the frame following recent managerial changes elsewhere. Enzo Maresca, recently departed from Chelsea, is reportedly admired by senior United figures, while Alonso himself is a free agent after leaving Real Madrid.
Backing for Interim Boss Michael Carrick
While the long-term search continues, Rooney expressed confidence in his former teammate Michael Carrick's ability to steady the ship in the short term. United have won just once in their last six league games but remain only three points behind fourth-placed Liverpool in the race for Champions League qualification.
"I think it is the right choice at this moment in time," Rooney said of Carrick's interim appointment. "It is a difficult task of course. Where Manchester United are at the minute is not a good place and Michael has to go in and steady the ship."
Rooney also offered insight into Carrick's character, warning not to be fooled by his calm exterior. "He can have fun as well, but make no mistake, he'd be going in there now with full focus," he added.
The coming months will be crucial for United, both on the pitch under Carrick's guidance and in the boardroom as they seek a marquee manager to lead the club into the 2026/27 season.
