Rooney Recalls Maradona Gift & High Praise for Young Star

The intersection of frustration and fortune proved a memorable one for Wayne Rooney in 2013, culminating in a bizarre, yet cherished, gift from an unlikely source: Diego Maradona. The former Manchester United striker recounted the story of how the Argentine legend gifted him his necktie in a Manchester restaurant, a moment born from Rooney’s disappointment following a Champions League match against Real Madrid.

Rooney was left on the bench for the return leg at Vintage Trafford, a decision that clearly irked the young forward. Having played out of position in the first leg at the Santiago Bernabéu – a venue he later described as one of his favorites – and contributing to a 1-1 draw with a crucial assist, Rooney felt he deserved a starting spot in the crucial second leg. “He left me on the bench for the return leg,” Rooney recalled. “Alex Ferguson pulled me in and told me I was going to be on the bench, which I was fuming with, because I played out of position, I did a job for the team, helped us get a good draw away from home, and we got beat (2-1 on the night).”

Still simmering from the snub, Rooney headed to Wing’s restaurant, a popular haunt for Premier League footballers in Manchester, seeking to unwind. It was there, amidst the familiar surroundings, that he encountered Maradona. “It was that evening actually – I went to Wing’s restaurant in my tracksuit, and Maradona was in there,” Rooney explained. “I got a picture with him, and stuff. He had a full suit on, and tie, and then he gave me his tie. It was a bit weird, he took his tie off, set it on me, my club tracksuit still on.”

The gesture, while unconventional, speaks to the respect Maradona held for Rooney’s talent and tenacity. Maradona had been a frequent visitor to Manchester around that time, largely due to his daughter Giannina’s marriage to Manchester City striker Sergio Agüero. He regularly attended matches, and clearly appreciated the commitment Rooney brought to the pitch.

Maradona’s admiration for Rooney wasn’t merely anecdotal. After witnessing Rooney’s senior England debut at just 17 years old, in a Euro 2004 qualifier against Macedonia, the 1986 World Cup winner proclaimed, “They don’t come along that often, players who can go on and become real world-class stars.” It was a prescient assessment, as Rooney would go on to become Manchester United’s all-time leading goalscorer and a pivotal figure for the England national team.

Rooney, himself a long-time admirer of Maradona, openly idolized the Argentine maestro. He frequently watched videos of Maradona’s performances growing up, captivated by his skill and flair. Following Maradona’s death in 2020, Rooney posted an emotional online tribute, referring to him simply as “the best.”

The story of the gifted tie, however, transcends a simple exchange of clothing. It represents a passing of the torch, a recognition of shared qualities between two iconic footballers. Both Rooney and Maradona were known for their fierce competitiveness, their unwavering dedication, and their ability to inspire passion in fans. Maradona, a player who often defied convention, saw a kindred spirit in the young Rooney, a player who consistently gave his all for club and country.

The fact that Rooney still possesses the tie, years later, underscores the significance of the moment. It’s a tangible reminder of an unexpected encounter with a legend, a symbol of respect, and a quirky anecdote from a defining period in his career. It’s a story that highlights the human side of football, the moments of connection that exist beyond the pitch, and the enduring legacy of one of the game’s greatest players.

While the Champions League defeat to Real Madrid undoubtedly stung at the time, the evening ultimately yielded a unique and cherished memento. A reminder that even in moments of frustration, a sporting icon can offer an unexpected gesture of camaraderie, leaving a lasting impression long after the final whistle.