Wayne Rooney, the former England and Manchester United striker, has candidly discussed his battle with alcoholism and its impact on his career. Speaking on the Stick to Football podcast, the 38-year-old opened up about his challenging upbringing in Merseyside and a pivotal encounter that could have derailed his promising football career.
Recalling his teenage years, Rooney described the difficulties he faced growing up in a tough environment. “You [Jamie Carragher] know where I grew up,” he said, addressing fellow podcast guest and former teammate Jamie Carragher. “It wasn’t an easy place to live, but I absolutely loved growing up there. It taught me many different things.”
He then revealed a crucial turning point at the age of 14, when he was caught by his Under-19s manager, Colin Harvey, while carrying alcohol and cigarettes on his way to training. This incident served as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of his actions.
“We used to go to an abandoned house and drink,” Rooney admitted, reflecting on his past choices. “Looking back, I had different issues, ended up drinking way too much, and obviously that took its toll.”
While acknowledging the potential impact on his career – “you always wonder ‘could I have achieved more?'” – Rooney emphasizes the value of hindsight and learning from past experiences.
This revelation sheds light on the personal struggles faced by Rooney, one of Europe’s most decorated players. His ability to overcome these challenges and achieve immense success is a testament to his resilience and determination.