Wayne Rooney’s Testimonial match, the start of a year of fundraising events by the Manchester United and England captain’s Foundation aimed at raising £5 million for disadvantaged and vulnerable children will be between Manchester United and Everton at Old Trafford on 3 August.
The match will give fans their first chance to see Jose Mourinho’s new-look Manchester United at the Theatre of Dreams in what will be the first fully competitive pre-season fixture to be played at United’s home ground for two years. The FA Cup – won for a record equalling 12th time will also be on display at the match.
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Paying tribute to Wayne, new manager Jose Mourinho said: “Wayne is and has been England’s best player for over a decade and this game will be a fitting tribute to everything he has achieved. I’m looking forward to what will be a very special night for us both. I’m sure the fans will make this a memorable occasion and help Wayne to raise a lot of money to help support vulnerable children.”
All proceeds from the Testimonial match, celebrating Wayne’s 12 remarkable years with Manchester United since his transfer as a teenager from Everton, and all other events will be distributed through the newly-launched Wayne Rooney Foundation to four chosen charities. These are the NSPCC, Claire House Children‘s Hospice, Alder Hey Children‘s Hospital and the Manchester United Foundation
Each has been selected because of Wayne’s personal commitment to the organisations and the children they help. Money raised by the Foundation will enable each charity to create legacy projects providing expert help for a generation of children faced with often overwhelming health issues, abuse and educational challenges.
Announcing details of his Testimonial match and the official launch of The Wayne Rooney Foundation, which has BT as its principle partner, Wayne said:
“For me there could not be a more special Testimonial match. Manchester United and Everton are the only clubs I have played for as a professional footballer. I am happy to say now that, whatever may happen in the future, I will never play for another Premier League club.
“I owe United and Everton everything for giving me my footballing opportunities. Through the Wayne Rooney Foundation I want to put something back and, at the same time, say a heartfelt thanks to everyone at these great clubs who ever helped me in my career.
“Everton and United, along with my family, gave me the support and opportunity to help me achieve my goals and dreams. Having a young family of my own makes me realise it’s vital that every child gets the opportunity to grow up surrounded by love and support to give them a chance of fulfilling their potential.
“I hope The Wayne Rooney Foundation and its charity partners can improve and inspire the lives of children disadvantaged by family breakdown, abuse, health issues or lack of educational opportunities.”
Clare White, CEO of Alder Hey Children‘s Charity, said: “Wayne, Coleen and their families have been amazing supporters for many years. The Wayne Rooney Foundation will provide funds which will enable us deliver more unique and innovative programmes of care for children in the North West.”
Phil Jagielka, Captain of Everton FC, said:“I am delighted to be involved in Wayne Rooney’s testimonial,” Jagielka said. “It’s fantastic that he has chosen to play against us.
“Obviously, he was given his chance by [Everton] and it’s nice that he feels it will be a fantastic game and that we can put a show on.
“Hopefully, we can raise a lot of money for the charities and everyone has a fantastic day. It’s a fantastic feat to have done what he’s done in the game and I am really looking forward to playing in the game and hopefully getting the win as well.”
The match will provide a spectacular lift-off for a Testimonial year of fundraising by The Wayne Rooney Foundation. Other events to be announced later will also provide headline entertainment for sell-out crowds, as well as the opportunity to pay tribute to Wayne’s remarkable career achievements
Tickets for the Wayne Rooney Testimonial Match between Manchester United and Everton on 3 August are available today from £25 for Adults and just £10 for under-16‘s
Those wishing to donate to The Wayne Rooney Foundation to help its work through its partner charities can also do so.
For more information, visit the Wayne Rooney Foundation website.