Kai Rooney follows in father Wayne’s footsteps as he makes Manchester United U18 debut at Old Trafford, with Wayne watching on

In Manchester United U18s’ 2–1 extra-time victory over Derby County, Kai Rooney came on as a substitute in the 99th minute with the game still goalless. Goals from Luca Crolla and Chido Obi then secured the win for the side, coached by Wayne Rooney’s former teammate Darren Fletcher, and booked their place in the quarter-finals of the prestigious youth competition.

The fixture was treated with great importance by the United hierarchy, with director of football Jason Wilcox, recruitment chief Christopher Vivell and academy director Stephen Torpey all in attendance, alongside Michael Carrick, his coaching staff and former United midfielder Darron Gibson in the directors’ box.

Wayne and Coleen Rooney watched on from the directors’ box at Old Trafford, joined by Manchester United boss Michael Carrick, as they witnessed their son’s landmark moment.

It was a particularly special evening for the proud Rooney parents, coming just over five years after Kai signed for the club. Despite playing two age groups above his level, he showed plenty of confidence during his brief spell on the pitch.

On his decision to attend, Carrick said: "My message of support is that I'm coming along to watch and I'm excited. I was lucky enough to play in and win the FA Youth Cup when I was young at West Ham.

"It's such an important competition, especially for this club. Young players, Old Trafford under the floodlights, feeling what it means, a bit of expectation.

"It's a fantastic opportunity for the young boys to go and take the next step. We're all fully behind them, it'll be a tough game, but we're looking forward to it."

Kai has made the jump to Manchester United’s Under-18s this term following his development within the academy. He netted a goal in the U18 League Cup last month, with the match taking place at the team’s regular base in Carrington.

Kai joined United’s academy in 2020 at just 11 years old, three years after Wayne Rooney brought an end to his illustrious 13-year career at Old Trafford, having won every major club trophy and overtaken Sir Bobby Charlton as the club’s record scorer.