Wayne Rooney & Steven Gerrard told they could reignite coaching careers in surprise country as ex-England boss identifies main 'problem' that Premier League icons have faced

Former England manager Roy Hodgson doubts that Steven Gerrard and Wayne Rooney will pursue coaching opportunities in unexpected countries like Sweden, despite both being currently unemployed. Hodgson, who has extensive international coaching experience, believes high-profile players like them will continue to attract offers from English clubs due to their legendary status, making a move abroad unlikely.

Hodgson suggests that managers without such star power—like Graham Potter or himself—are more probable candidates for overseas roles. He highlights increasing job insecurity in football, noting the average managerial tenure drops below one year outside the Premier League. However, he questions whether clubs in nations like Sweden could financially afford English managers' salary expectations today.

Despite his skepticism about Sweden, Hodgson would advise Gerrard and Rooney to accept foreign opportunities if presented. He praises their drive but wonders if they could adapt to working with less skilled players, though he cites Rooney's positive experience helping struggling players at Plymouth. Hodgson differentiates their career trajectory from managers like Vincent Kompany, who climbed through clubs like Anderlecht before joining Bayern Munich.

Currently, Gerrard remains without a managerial position since leaving Saudi Arabia's Al-Ettifaq in January 2024, while Rooney—after departing Plymouth Argyle—is focused on media work and a documentary with his wife Coleen.