Wayne Rooney, 39, lands new job six months after Plymouth sacking

 Wayne Rooney has secured a new coaching position with Football Escapes in Dubai, working alongside former England colleague Michael Dawson.

The appointment comes almost six months after the 39-year-old left Plymouth Argyle by mutual consent in December.

Rooney departed Home Park with the club anchored at the foot of the Championship, and they subsequently suffered relegation at the season's conclusion.

The former England striker's latest venture sees him return to a programme he previously participated in during February half term.

His new responsibilities will involve providing daily coaching and mentorship to young footballers as part of the Dubai-based initiative, marking his first formal role since exiting management.

The Football Escapes programme offers a five-day course in October, marketed as "the ultimate family holiday and football experience".

Children receive instruction from UEFA-qualified coaches, with Rooney providing daily guidance to help young players develop their skills.

The initiative combines holiday activities with intensive football training, allowing families to enjoy Dubai whilst children benefit from professional coaching.

This marks Rooney's second stint with Football Escapes, having previously contributed to the programme during the February half-term edition. The course represents a departure from traditional management roles, focusing instead on youth development in a holiday setting.

Rooney's managerial career has been marked by disappointment across multiple clubs.

His tenure at Plymouth represented another setback following mixed spells at Birmingham City, DC United and Derby County.

The former Manchester United striker has indicated he will remain away from management for the time being.

When asked about his future plans after participating in Soccer Aid this month, he said: "Obviously just doing some TV work at the minute, so that's what I'm doing. I'm enjoying it. So, that's where I'll be."

Speaking on Stick to Football, Rooney acknowledged his willingness to return to management but emphasised the importance of finding the right opportunity.

He admitted that despite his confidence in handling difficult situations, his experience at Plymouth proved otherwise.

Despite his recent struggles, Rooney has not abandoned his ambitions for top-level management. Following his Birmingham dismissal last year, he declared his interest in two specific roles.

"Manchester United or Everton is the aim," he stated on Match of the Day.

"These big jobs are where you want to get to, but it's a process I have got to go through the steps and get myself back on track."

He added: "I want to get myself back into management to make sure in the next 10 years I'm hopefully in a position to go into one of the big jobs."

Rooney also reflected on his managerial confidence. Earlier this year, he said: "I think you always have that ego, don't you? You always have that confidence you could go in and get the best out of a bad or difficult situation."