“Keep Fighting” – Wayne Rooney Extends Support to His Former Coach Battling Cancer, Seven Goran-Eriksson

The English soccer community was hit with unfortunate news last night. Former England head coach Sven-Goran Eriksson made a heartbreaking announcement informing fans about his existing health issues. Eriksson, while taking on the Swedish Radio P1, spoke on his medical condition with the seventy-year-old battling terminal cancer. Former Three Lions star Wayne Rooney was amongst many who reacted to the news, sending his best wishes to the former English manager.

The Swede made history in 2001 after he became the first overseas coach to be appointed as the manager for the English national side. Eriksson led the team from 2001 to 2006, managing a golden generation of players under his wing.

Wayne Rooney reacts to Sven-Goran Eriksson’s heartbreaking announcement

Rooney, who his debut under Eriksson, was amongst the first people to react to the manager’s announcement. The former Birmingham manager, in his message, stated, “Sad news this morning. Thoughts are with Sven Goran-Eriksson and his family. A brilliant coach and a special person. Loved and respected by everyone. We’re all with you Sven. Keep fighting.”

The former English boss is one of the most reputed managers despite not achieving any massive success with the side. Eriksson, while talking with a local Swedish radio channel, opened up on his condition, stating, “I’m going to resist for as long as I can. I have an illness that’s serious. Best case a year, I have worst case a lot less. It’s impossible to say exactly, so it’s better to not think about it.”

Sven-Goran Eriksson had a decorated stint as a head coach. The Swedish manager bagged multiple accolades in his forty-seven-year managerial career. However, fans will surely remember him for his time at Lazio with the manager helping the Serie A side bag the Scudetto, Coppa Italia, and the UEFA Super Cup during his time at the club.

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Wayne Rooney looking to walk in his former manager’s footsteps

While Goran-Eriksson had a reputed career as a manager, his former striker is having a tough time at the job. Wayne Rooney, after an illustrious career as a player, dipped his shoes into coaching in 2020. However, things have not turned out the way he planned with the ex-Manchester City star already past his third job in three years.

Rooney was appointed as Championship side Birmingham City’s manager in October 2023. However, the ex-D.C. United boss had a disastrous run with the side winning just 2 out of 15 games. With the manager failing to get the needed results, the Englishman was sacked earlier this year. Rooney, following the setback, is now looking to take time off from his managerial responsibilities and spend time with his family.

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