On October 19th 2010, Sir Alex Ferguson confirmed to the world’s press that Wayne Rooney wanted to leave the club. Just months after the player claimed he wanted to see out the rest of his career at United, he decided that he needed to move to a club that matched his ambition.

“I met with David Gill last week and he did not give me any of the assurances I was seeking about the future squad,” Rooney said the following day. “I then told him that I would not be signing a new contract. I was interested to hear what Sir Alex had to say yesterday and surprised by some of it. It is absolutely true, as he said, that my agent and I have had a number of meetings with the club about a new contract. During those meetings in August I asked for assurances about the continued ability of the club to attract the top players in the world. For me its all about winning trophies – as the club has always done under Sir Alex. Because of that I think the questions I was asking were justified.”

Two days later, he signed a five year deal with the club, making him the club’s best paid player.

Seven months later, he scored the penalty which sealed United’s record breaking 19th title, as well as scoring in the European Cup final against Barcelona.

Tonight, after putting United 1-0 up against Otelul Galati, Rooney kissed the badge again in front of our travelling fans.




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