Rooney urged to quit Man Utd and ‘feel the love’ in China

Rooney and Young: Shunning China interest

The Chinese FA’s marketing director has urged Wayne Rooney to quit Manchester United and move to China where he’d be ‘loved and appreciated as a global superstar’.

The United and England skipper has lost his place in Jose Mourinho’s side on the back of some indifferent performances this season, with our article suggesting his star was very much on the, ahem, wane.

Jose Mourinho: Talks tactics with Wayne Rooney

Although Jose Mourinho has fiercely defended the player, Chinese FA maketing director Li Jiuquan has told the Daily Mail he should seriously consider a move to the Asian country, where he would be truly appreciated.

“Wayne Rooney is huge star in China,” Li said.

“Even my young son knows all about Rooney and I have taken a picture of his shirt.

“If Rooney played in the Chinese Super League it would attract huge attention, not only inside China but on television worldwide, and give the CSL huge exposure globally. Maybe only Messi and Ronaldo are more famous.”

Ramires

Several top players have made the move to China recently including former Chelsea ace Ramires, Brazilian Hulk and Argentine star Ezequiel Lavezzi.

“Players will keep coming to China, that’s for sure. The clubs want to improve the level of their performance and those kind of players attract more and more fans,” Li added.

 

Duffen backs Rooney switch

Rooney1

And former Hull chairman Paul Duffen – who is reportedly examining a Chinese buyer for the Tigers – believes there is a real possibility Rooney could make the switch to China.

“More big names will undoubtedly follow to China because the marquee players drive visibility of the game and the money is there to attract them,” he said.

“I can very much see Wayne Rooney playing in China. I’m sure China will become an end-of-career option for some players.”

Rooney has made 10 appearances for United this season, scoring just one goal.