Major Controversies Surrounding Wayne Rooney: A Detailed Timeline

Public opinion and media debates around Wayne Rooney—discover key moments of controversy.

Wayne Rooney is a former English professional football player and current manager. He most recently managed Plymouth Argyle in the EFL Championship. A prominent figure in English football, Rooney is celebrated for his playing career.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

September 2005: Champions League Red Card

In September 2005, Wayne Rooney was sent off in a Champions League match against Villarreal for sarcastically clapping the referee.

August 2006: Amsterdam Tournament Red Card

On August 4, 2006, Wayne Rooney was sent off in the Amsterdam Tournament match against Porto after hitting Porto defender Pepe with his elbow, resulting in a three-match ban by the FA.

2006: Sending off during World Cup

During the 2006 FIFA World Cup game against Portugal, Wayne Rooney was sent off from the Veltins-Arena in Gelsenkirchen.

June 2008: Rooney marries Coleen McLoughlin

On June 12, 2008, Wayne Rooney married Coleen McLoughlin after dating for six years. The wedding, held at the Abbey of Cervara near Genoa, faced controversy with the Catholic Church due to the venue's deconsecrated status. Despite warnings, they proceeded with their local priest, Father Edward Quinn, presiding. Coleen's favourite band, Westlife, also performed at the reception and Stereophonics played as well.

July 2008: Helen Wood's Allegations

In July 2008, Big Brother winner Helen Wood alleged that Rooney paid £1,000 for a threesome with her and Jennifer Thompson while his wife was five months pregnant.

July 2008: Paul Stretford Found Guilty

On July 9, 2008, Paul Stretford was found guilty of providing false and misleading statements to the police and giving false testimony, and his contract signing Rooney was found to be two years longer than the FA limit. He received an £300,000 fine and was banned from being a football agent for 18 months.

July 2010: Proactive Awarded Restitution

In July 2010, Proactive was awarded £90,000 as restitution in their lawsuit against Rooney for withheld commissions.

2010: 2010 FIFA World Cup controversy and performance

During the 2010 FIFA World Cup, Wayne Rooney was given the number 10 shirt. Following a draw against Algeria on June 18, 2010, Rooney criticized England fans for booing the team, later apologizing for his actions. He went scoreless throughout the tournament.

September 2014: Rooney Becomes Third Highest Premier League Goalscorer

In September 2014, Wayne Rooney became the third-highest Premier League goalscorer with 176 goals, surpassing Thierry Henry, in a match against West Ham, where he was later sent off.

February 2015: Criticism for Diving

In February 2015, Wayne Rooney was criticised for diving to get a penalty in an FA Cup match against Preston North End. He later apologised for the incident.

September 2017: Rooney Arrested for Drink Driving

On September 1, 2017, Wayne Rooney was arrested in Wilmslow for driving over the prescribed alcohol limit. He pleaded guilty on September 18, 2017, was fined £170, banned from driving for two years, and ordered to complete 100 hours of unpaid work. Everton also fined him two weeks' wages.

December 2018: Rooney Arrested for Public Intoxication

On December 16, 2018, Wayne Rooney was arrested at Washington Dulles International Airport for public intoxication and use of profanity in public. He was released without bail and later fined US$25 plus US$91 in costs.