Manchester United have a long list of legends, but very few come above Wayne Rooney, but there could be a new Rooney on the scene.
For any football fan growing up in the 2000s, Wayne Rooney is unanimously considered one of the most underrated players ever, being world class for years despite not getting his credit at Manchester United.
Rooney is United’s record goalscorer, surpassing Sir Bobby Charlton in his final campaign at the club, with a tally of 253, which looks insurmountable.
But no, Kai Rooney is beginning to impress in United’s academy, with the forward currently part of the Super Cup NI squad which is in Northern Ireland this week.
The 15-year-old Rooney scored and assisted for United in the tournament opener, and on Tuesday Wayne was in Colraine to see his eldest son face off against Rangers.
Wayne Rooney discusses Kai Rooney’s development
Rooney was at the stadium to take in the game, in which Douka Nkoto scored twice for United, in very impressive fashion it is worth adding.
Speaking on the night of the fixture with the BBC, the former club captain spoke about Kai Rooney and his development, highlighting the mental side of football as one area he is helping his son.
“He has great coaches at Manchester United, so I take a stand off approach.
“I speak to him, but for me it’s all about his mentality and his mindset, to make sure he keeps enjoying it – that’s the main thing for me.”
The article added that Rooney said Kai handles the pressure of following in his footsteps well and said the 15-year-old takes everything in his stride.
Wayne Rooney once praised Kai Rooney to Gary Neville, however, despite speaking in a positive manner, he is always careful to avoid overhyping his son which is never good for a youngsters mentality.
Manchester United could be set for the next decade in attack
Wayne Rooney sounds quietly optimistic about Kai Rooney’s chances in football, while not piling too much pressure or expectation onto his son.
However, for United, if the teenage Rooney can become even half the player that his father was then he will be very special indeed.
The 15-year-old is not alone in this bracket, with United possessing a couple of wonderkids who have tremendous potential, all 15 or younger, with Douka Nkoto and JJ Gabriel the others considered top talents.
If one or two of these promising talents can reach the potential they have then United will be very lucky and set for the next decade.
Kai Rooney is certainly at an advantage to do so having one of the greatest to ever play the game as a dad.
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