Wayne Rooney’s role in football has changed significantly in 2026.
After a challenging period in management, the Manchester United icon has become a media figure.
He is now the host of his own twice-weekly program on BBC, “The Wayne Rooney Show,” where he shares tactical insights and stories from his playing career.
Additionally, viewers are getting a rare glimpse into his personal life through a new 10-part Disney+ documentary series titled “The Rooneys,” showing how Wayne juggles his broadcasting career with his responsibilities as a father to four sons.
Even with his prominent media presence, Rooney’s strongest connection to football is through his eldest son, Kai.
At 16, Kai is making his mark in the Manchester United academy, echoing his father’s goal-scoring talent.
The young player recently moved up to the Under-18 squad and scored a stunning volley against Middlesbrough.
Wayne has taken a hands-off approach to Kai’s career, allowing United’s top coaches to guide his development while he emphasizes the importance of mental strength.
However, being the son of a club icon doesn’t exempt Kai from the academy’s strict rules.
Manchester United has reinforced its educational standards by implementing a “black boots only” policy that affects Kai, who cannot wear his personal boots, as reported by the Daily Mail.
Despite being a well-known figure in the academy and having a sponsorship deal with Puma at just 12 years old, Kai is not allowed to wear branded or colorful footwear while playing for the Under-16s and younger teams.
Wayne has publicly supported this rule, stating on The Smith Brothers: Not A Podcast that it promotes fairness among players.
He explained that the policy helps prevent social divides, as it shields players from different backgrounds who might not afford the latest gear.
This “Carrington Code” requires young players to prove themselves at the professional level before wearing flashy sponsored boots.
For now, Kai’s colorful Puma boots stay in the locker—a reminder that at United, talent and humility are prioritized over commercial appeal.
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