Wayne Rooney’s net worth in 2026 is estimated at approximately £170 million ($220 million), making him the richest football manager in the world.
His wealth comes from a legendary playing career, major brand endorsements, media work, and smart financial structuring that continues to pay off after retirement.

Who Is Wayne Rooney?

Wayne Rooney is an English football legend and former Manchester United and England star who later transitioned into football management and media.
Born on 24 October 1985 in Liverpool, Rooney is widely regarded as one of the greatest British footballers of all time.

Key facts:

• Nickname: Wazza

• Position (playing career): Forward / Attacking midfielder

• Current role: Football pundit and former club manager

Wayne Rooney Net Worth in 2026

As of late 2025 and entering 2026, Wayne Rooney’s estimated net worth stands at £170 million ($220 million).
When combined with his wife Coleen Rooney, the Rooney family’s total wealth is estimated to exceed £200 million.

Why This Figure Matters

• Places Rooney at the top of the richest football managers list (January 2026)

• Higher net worth than many elite managers still coaching at top clubs

• Reflects long-term earning power beyond football

How Did Wayne Rooney Make His Money?

Wayne Rooney’s wealth did not come from one source. It was built over three major phases of his career.

1. Football Salary: The Foundation of His Fortune

Rooney earned the majority of his wealth during his playing days, particularly at Manchester United.

Manchester United Earnings

• Played 13 seasons at United

• Became the club’s all-time top scorer (253 goals)

• Earned upwards of £300,000 per week during peak contract years

Career Achievements That Drove Income

• 5× Premier League titles

• 1× UEFA Champions League

• FA Cups, League Cups, and Club World Cup wins

These achievements made Rooney one of the highest-paid players of his generation.

2. Endorsements & Sponsorship Deals

Endorsements played a major role in growing Wayne Rooney’s net worth.

Major Brands He Worked With

• Nike (long-term boot and apparel deal)

• Coca-Cola

• EA Sports (FIFA franchise)

These deals earned Rooney tens of millions of pounds over his career and cemented his global brand value.

3. Post-Retirement Income & Media Work

Unlike many former players, Rooney remained financially active after retiring.

Football Punditry

• Regular pundit for BBC Match of the Day

• Analysis work for other UK networks

This keeps Rooney visible, relevant, and well-paid in the football media space.

Wayne Rooney’s Managerial Career & Earnings

Rooney moved into management after retiring as a player, with mixed sporting results but continued financial stability.

Clubs Managed

• Derby County

• D.C. United

• Birmingham City

• Plymouth Argyle

While his managerial career has been challenging, it has not significantly impacted his overall wealth.

Key Insight

Rooney’s net worth is not dependent on managerial success. His playing-era income and endorsements already secured his financial future.

The £800,000 Tax Rebate That Boosted His Wealth

In late 2025, Wayne Rooney received a £800,000 tax rebate following the closure of a company used for his image rights.

Why This Matters

• Increased his liquid assets

• Highlighted long-term financial planning

• Reinforced his position as football’s wealthiest manager

This single event further strengthened his 2026 net worth figures.

Wayne Rooney vs Other Rich Football Managers (2026)

As of January 2026, Rooney is ranked the richest football manager in the world.

Why He Ranks No.1

• Higher lifetime playing earnings than most managers

• Strong endorsement history

• Continued income from media and appearances

Even elite managers with long coaching careers struggle to match Rooney’s combined football and commercial earnings.

Family Wealth: Wayne & Coleen Rooney

Wayne Rooney’s wife, Coleen Rooney, is a successful media personality and businesswoman in her own right.

Combined Net Worth

• Estimated £200+ million as a couple

• Includes property, investments, and business interests

Their combined wealth places them among the richest sports families in the UK.

Does Wayne Rooney Own a Private Jet?

There is no confirmed public evidence that Wayne Rooney owns a private jet.
However, given his wealth, he frequently uses luxury travel services for convenience and privacy.

Why Is Wayne Rooney So Rich? (Summary)

Wayne Rooney is rich because he:

• Earned elite-level salaries at Manchester United

• Secured global endorsement deals early in his career

• Managed his finances well post-retirement

• Continues earning through media and appearances

Most importantly, he monetised his legacy, not just his playing years.

Wayne Rooney Career Highlights (EEAT Section)

Manchester United Icon

• 253 goals in 559 appearances

• United’s all-time leading scorer

England National Team Legend

• 120 caps

• 53 goals

• Former England captain

Early Breakthrough

• Scored a famous goal against Arsenal as a teenager for Everton

These achievements justify Rooney’s long-term marketability and financial success.

What Can Footballers Learn From Wayne Rooney’s Wealth Strategy?

Practical lessons:

• Peak earnings must be invested wisely

• Brand value matters as much as performance

• Media presence extends career longevity

• Financial planning outlasts trophies

Rooney’s career shows how elite athletes can secure lifetime financial security.

FAQs: Wayne Rooney Net Worth

What is Wayne Rooney’s net worth in 2026?

Wayne Rooney’s net worth in 2026 is estimated at £170 million ($220 million).

Is Wayne Rooney the richest football manager?

Yes, as of January 2026, Wayne Rooney is ranked as the richest football manager in the world.

How much is the Rooney family worth?

Wayne and Coleen Rooney’s combined net worth is estimated to be over £200 million.

Did Wayne Rooney make most of his money as a manager?

No. Most of his wealth comes from his playing career and endorsements, not management.

Does Wayne Rooney still earn money after retirement?

Yes. He earns through media punditry, appearances, and financial settlements, including a recent tax rebate.

Final Verdict

Wayne Rooney’s £170 million net worth in 2026 is the result of elite football success, global branding, and smart financial management.
Even without major managerial trophies, his legacy as a player and public figure keeps him at the top of football’s wealth rankings.

For fans and professionals alike, Rooney’s journey is a masterclass in turning sporting greatness into lasting financial power