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Former England and Manchester United star Wayne Rooney has signed an eye-watering £800,000 two-year deal to become a regular pundit on BBC’s iconic Match of the Day.
Rooney, 38, will be officially unveiled later this month after impressing audiences and bosses alike during several guest appearances on the show in recent months. His new role marks a major shift for the ex-striker, who looks set to step away from football management and embrace a high-profile career in broadcasting.
The contract also locks Rooney in for the BBC’s coverage of the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted jointly by the USA, Mexico, and Canada. His deal reportedly includes an option for a two-year extension, keeping him on our screens potentially through 2028.
Wayne will join a rotating lineup of hosts including Kelly Cates, Mark Chapman, and Gabby Logan as the programme transitions into a new era following Gary Lineker’s departure after 26 years.
A source close to the production said:
“Wayne is a natural broadcaster; he’s warm, witty, and forensically knowledgeable about the game. He’s already won over viewers with his guest spots and is exactly what the show needs in the wake of Gary’s exit.”
The move also reinforces the Rooneys’ growing influence on British television. In March, wife Coleen Rooney signed a reported £10million deal with Disney+ to star in a documentary about her family life, with Wayne and their four sons also appearing.
Fans have responded positively to Rooney’s previous appearances, with social media buzzing over his mix of expertise and humour. The source added:
“Wayne gets on brilliantly with both the production crew and his fellow pundits. He’ll be a key part of the BBC’s World Cup team, a massive coup.”
Credit:BBC
Rooney’s shift to broadcasting comes after a mixed run in management, with spells at Derby County, DC United, and Birmingham City. Now, as he and Coleen step into the spotlight as TV’s newest power couple, it seems the next chapter of his career is just beginning.
For football fans, Rooney’s sharp analysis and love of the game will no doubt bring a fresh dynamic to Match of the Day, and plenty to talk about on Saturday nights.
