Wayne Rooney's wife Coleen sent him Saudi Arabia ultimatum over son Kai

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Callum Vurley

By Callum Vurley


Published: 05/09/2024

- 14:35

Updated: 05/09/2024

- 14:50

Wayne Rooney has been put in his place over a potential move to Saudi Arabia

Wayne Rooney's wife Coleen issued a firm stance against potential moves to Saudi Arabia after interest before he joined Plymouth Argyle as manager.

According to Heat World, Coleen has given Wayne a "firm 'no'" regarding any prospects of coaching in Saudi Arabia.


The decision comes as the family's focus shifts towards their eldest son Kai's burgeoning football career at Manchester United's academy.

A source told Heat World: "Wayne is still talking about the chance to go to Saudi, but Coleen has given him a firm 'no'.

"As far as she's concerned, he's had his time in the spotlight, now it's about the kids and Coleen is very clear that, when it comes to football careers in the family, her focus is on Kai, who's really making name for himself and is generating a lot of professional interest."

This ultimatum comes as Coleen reportedly decided to remain in Cheshire rather than relocate to Plymouth.

Wayne and Coleen Rooney

Wayne Rooney was told by his wife Coleen that he could not move to Saudi Arabia

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The Liverpool Echo reported that Coleen will stay at their £20m Cheshire mansion with their four sons, despite Wayne's new role at Plymouth Argyle.

The decision appears to be influenced by family considerations, particularly Kai's promising football career.

The source added: "Coleen supports Wayne and believes he can do a great job as a manager and get the recognition he deserves but, at the same time, he needs to get over himself and concentrate on being a mentor to Kai."

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This stance reflects a shift in family priorities, with Coleen seemingly prioritising stability for their children over Wayne's managerial ambitions abroad.

Despite the family tensions, Wayne Rooney remains committed to his managerial career.

Speaking to the Mail on Sunday, he expressed his determination to succeed: "I had a short break, maybe a week or so, before I went to manage DC United, and then I had 48 hours before I went in to Birmingham City.

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"Before coming here, I had a few months. It was good. I was able to reflect on everything I have been through as a coach."

Rooney added: "I want to be an example for my children, for my players.

"I want to be in football. That's what I know, that's what I love. Hopefully I can bring many smiles to a lot of fans' faces here."

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Rooney's son Kai, 14, is desperate to follow in his father's footsteps and become a professional footballer, though it has not been without friction in the household.

A source told Heat World: "Coleen is very clear that, when it comes to football careers in the family, her focus is on Kai, who's really making name for himself and is generating a lot of professional interest."

The source added: "Wayne is, of course, proud of Kai, but there has been a bit of sulkiness from him, not to mention some grouchiness and being difficult."

Wayne Rooney

Wayne Rooney has been told he cannot go to Saudi Arabia

PA

This shift in attention has apparently been challenging for Wayne to navigate. The source noted: "It's understandably hard enough dealing with the fact your star is no longer on the rise.

"But to be doing that at the same time as your sons are being catapulted to sporting fame is a double blow."

Coleen Rooney

Coleen Rooney has also stayed up north to look after Kai, 14

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