Kai Rooney
January 2026
Kai Rooney, 16, debuted at Old Trafford for United’s Under-18s in an FA Youth Cup win over Derby, coming on to loud “Rooney” chants and producing an eye-catching cameo. The match went to extra time at 0-0, United went ahead via an own goal, added a second through Chido Obi, and held on after Derby pulled one back. Wayne Rooney posted a “then and now” message marking the moment.
Kai Rooney (Manchester United)
November 2025
Teenage forward Kai Rooney is closing in on a return from a serious injury suffered in September that left him on crutches and in a protective boot, ending a spell he described online as “life can’t get worse” while he endured a lengthy lay-off away from Manchester United’s academy pitches. Having resumed training at the start of the month, Rooney is pushing to be fit for the U18s’ FA Youth Cup clash against Peterborough, moved to Old Trafford instead of Leigh Sports Village. The tie could deliver his first appearance at the stadium, potentially alongside highly rated team-mate JJ “Kid Messi” Gabriel in a landmark night for both prospects.