The English legend will visit Stade Saputo this Saturday
A game of vital importance will be played at Stade Saputo this Saturday. D.C. United may be last in the Eastern Conference standings but has managed to turn things around as of late, posting a 2-2-1 record in its last five games. If the Impact wants to maintain its playoff position, it’ll have to find a way to keep its opponent’s newest star, Wayne Rooney, at bay.
“Everyone knows a lot about Rooney,” said defender Michael Petrasso. “He’s a famous, world class player. It’s exciting that he’s coming here to play, considering his experience and everything he’s done in his career. I think the boys are looking forward to that.”
Rooney joined D.C. United on June 28 and scored his first goal with the club in its most recent win against the Colorado Rapids. But it’s his contributions on and off the pitch that are helping D.C. slowly turn its season around.
“Other than his talent, he has a quality that attracts others,” said Impact head coach Rémi Garde. “I don’t get the impression that he’s someone who likes to talk a lot, but he’s a leader. He’s a big reason D.C. is becoming a better team.”
World-class career
Wayne Rooney made a name for himself playing with Manchester United for 13 years, winning five Premier League titles - and one Champions League title - with the Red Devils, while also becoming the club’s all-time top scorer. Some of the Impact’s younger players grew up watching the English legend when he was in his prime.
“Before leaving for Europe, I would wake up early on Saturdays to watch the Premier League and I remember watching him play with Manchester United,” said midfielder Samuel Piette. “To be able to play against him on Saturday will be something very special. He’s someone I admire a lot and who’s had an amazing career.”
“Rooney, I’m used to playing with him on PlayStation,” said midfielder Mathieu Choinière. “Now, we’re going to face him on the pitch. But in the end he’s an opponent, and just another player on the field.”
Wayne Rooney’s achievements will be the last thing on the players’ minds when the team from Washington visits Montreal on Saturday. Excellent tickets are still available on impactmontreal.com.
“We have a lot of respect for him, but I don’t think the players should be impressed,” stressed Garde. “To respect and admire what he’s achieved is normal, but on the other end, we have no fear in facing Wayne Rooney.”
