Wayne Rooney’s latest venture in management has ended in disappointment as he parted ways with Plymouth Argyle after only seven months, adding to the list of challenges faced by England’s so-called ‘golden generation’ in their post-playing careers.
A Struggle for Success
Rooney, along with contemporaries Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard, enjoyed immense success as players but have found management to be a stark contrast. Rooney’s tenure at Plymouth was marked by just four wins out of 23 league games, culminating in his departure following a 2-0 loss to Oxford United.
Rooney’s Managerial Track Record
His time at Birmingham last season was even more fleeting, lasting only 83 days, with a record of nine losses in 15 matches, which ultimately led to their relegation from the Championship. Rooney’s first managerial experience at Derby was also fraught with challenges, ending in relegation due to financial issues.
Lampard’s Managerial Ups and Downs
Frank Lampard, another icon from England’s golden era, has had a mixed bag in management. After a promising start at Derby, which included a play-off final appearance, he managed Chelsea where he initially did well by nurturing young talent amidst a transfer ban. However, his second season at Chelsea led to his dismissal, and subsequent stints at Everton and back at Chelsea as an interim manager were less successful.
Gerrard’s Journey from Triumph to Struggle
Steven Gerrard’s managerial career began with a high, winning the Scottish Premiership with Rangers. This success led to an opportunity with Aston Villa in the Premier League, but his tenure there was short-lived, marked by poor performances. He now manages in the Saudi Pro League with Al-Ettifaq.
Other Golden Generation Managers
Gary Neville and Paul Scholes, both from the same era, ventured into management but quickly returned to other roles after brief and unsuccessful spells at Valencia and Oldham respectively. Neville has since found his niche as a pundit, while Scholes left management quite early due to issues with club ownership.
Alternative Paths for Former Players
Not all have followed the path to head coach; John Terry and Ashley Cole have taken up assistant roles, perhaps recognizing the complexities of management. Meanwhile, David Beckham, who was also part of this celebrated generation, has shifted his focus to business, notably as a co-owner of Inter Miami, where he even had to make the tough decision to part ways with friend Phil Neville.
The Legacy of England’s Golden Generation in Management
The management careers of these once-celebrated players highlight the significant leap from playing prowess to coaching success, suggesting that clubs might think twice before entrusting their futures to former stars from this era.
