Plymouth sacks Wayne Rooney after miserable run in EFL Championship 2024-25

In a shocking line of developments, Plymouth Argyle FC has parted ways with the head coach Wayne Rooney in the middle of the ongoing EFL Championship 2024-25. The club sacked the former England international after Argyle FC’s dismal run of form in the ongoing edition of the tournament. 

Notably, the Pilgrims are at the rock bottom of the tournament’s points table, with only four wins in their 23 games, facing 13 defeats, alongside six drawn games. They have been through a win-less run for the last nine games in their campaign in the tournament.

Argyle FC released an official statement, announcing the end of the ‘Wayne Rooney era’ in the club. However, the club also mentioned that this decision came after a mutual agreement between Plymouth and Rooney. Rooney's seven-month stint as head coach has been ended with an immediate effect. 

Assistant Head Coach Mike Phelan and first-team coach Simon Ireland will also be leaving the Pilgrims, alongside Rooney. Following this turnaround in the leadership, first-team coach Kevin Nancekivell and club skipper Joe Edwards will take charge of the side in the next Championship fixture against Bristol City on January 1.

“Plymouth Argyle can confirm that the club and Head Coach Wayne Rooney have mutually agreed to part ways with immediate effect. Departing the club with Rooney will be Assistant Head Coach Mike Phelan and first-team coach Simon Ireland,” said Plymouth Argyle FC in their official statement.

“First team coach Kevin Nancekivell and Club Captain Joe Edwards will lead the team for our Sky Bet Championship match against Bristol City on New Year’s Day. Daryl Flahavan will continue as Goalkeeping coach,” the club added later.

Plymouth Argyle will always hold a special place in my heart – Wayne Rooney

Following the club’s statement former England star and outgoing head coach also came up with a statement on this big decision in the middle of the tournament.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Board of Plymouth Argyle Football Club, in particular Simon Hallett and Neil Dewsnip who I shared great relationships with. Thanks also to all the staff who made me feel welcome and who make the club such a special place, the players and fans for their efforts and support during my time as Head Coach and I wish them all the best for the future,” Rooney was quoted as saying in the club’s official press release. 

“To the Green Army thanks for making the games at Home Park so special, they are memories that we will share forever. I would also like to give a special mention to my coaching staff Kevin Nancekivell, Simon Ireland, Darryl Flahavan and Mike Phelan for their knowledge, dedication, help and support. Plymouth Argyle will always hold a special place in my heart, and I will continue to look out for and take interest in their results,” he concluded.