Former England striker Wayne Rooney has revealed that he received death threats after his high-profile move from Everton to Manchester United in 2004. Rooney, who was just 18 at the time, left his boyhood club in a £27 million deal, a decision that angered many Everton supporters.

Speaking on BBC Sport’s The Wayne Rooney Show, the former United star opened up about the shocking backlash he and his family faced shortly after the transfer. 

“I received death threats,” Rooney said. “My parents’ house was spray-painted and vandalized. My girlfriend, now my wife, also had her house damaged.”

Rooney recalled how emotionally challenging that period was, especially since the threats came from people in his hometown. Nevertheless, he stayed focused on his career goals. 

“Leaving was difficult because going to Manchester United intensified the rivalry with Liverpool and Everton,” he explained. “But I always had the mindset of ‘I don’t care.’ I knew what I wanted to achieve, and I had to stay mentally strong.”

Rooney emphasized that having a strong support system was crucial during that turbulent time, a lesson he now shares with his oldest son, Kai, who currently plays in Manchester United’s youth setup. 

As Kai pursues his football dreams, Rooney ensures that he is surrounded by the right people and guidance to handle the pressures of the sport.