English football icon Wayne Rooney revealed that his wife, Coleen, played a pivotal role in helping him overcome his battle with alcohol, stating he believes he “would be dead” without her support. Speaking on the Rio Ferdinand Presents podcast, the former Manchester United and England star shared with ex-teammate Rio Ferdinand that during the height of his career, he would “drink for two days straight” after matches. “I’d train, score two goals at the weekend, then drink for two days straight again,” the 39-year-old said.Rooney credited Coleen for helping him manage his behavior. “She helped me control that massively and managed me because I needed managing,” he said. “I honestly believe, if she weren’t there, I’d be dead.” He recalled meeting Coleen in secondary school in Liverpool, noting that she recognized his struggles early on during their six-year relationship before their 2008 marriage. “She could see I was a bit out there,” he said. “I loved football, but I also loved a night out. She’s helped me control that massively.”Rooney admitted to hiding his drinking from Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson by using chewing gum and eye drops. The couple, who have four children, have faced public scrutiny over Rooney’s infidelity and alcohol-related incidents, including a 2017 drink-driving arrest in Cheshire, which led to a two-year driving ban and a fine from Everton, and a 2018 arrest for public intoxication in the US, resulting in a fine.Now, having stepped down as head coach of Plymouth Argyle, Rooney hosts a BBC podcast and works as a pundit on Match of the Day.
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