Manchester United Legend Wayne Rooney Opens Up on Medical Condition Impacting His Work

Manchester United and England legend Wayne Rooney has made a surprising personal revelation, disclosing that he is deaf in his left ear—a condition that impacts his work as a television pundit.

The former striker, who has become a regular analyst on the BBC's Match of the Day, shared the information during a behind-the-scenes segment. While being fitted with an earpiece, Rooney requested it be placed in his right ear, explaining the difficulty he faces with studio talkback.

"The problem is I’m deaf in my left ear," Rooney stated as per Dailymail. "So when it’s too loud I struggle to hear what Kelly Cates [MOTD presenter] or whoever is saying."

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The 38-year-old had not previously spoken publicly about his hearing impairment. The cause and onset of the condition remain unclear, though it is known that he required 45 stitches in his left ear following an accident on a yacht in 2009.

Rooney's transition into media has been a prominent move since he stepped away from management, having had coaching spells at Derby County, D.C. United, Birmingham City, and most recently, Plymouth Argyle. He reportedly signed a significant contract with the BBC over the summer and also hosts a podcast for the broadcaster.

Despite the challenge, Rooney has been praised for his insightful analysis. During a recent appearance, he commented on Manchester United's performance in their 2-0 derby victory over Manchester City, a match overseen by his former teammate Michael Carrick.

"When we talk about Manchester United's DNA, this is it," Rooney said, analysing a goal from Bryan Mbeumo. "Sprinting forward, we've seen so many Manchester United goals over the years exactly like this."

He also lauded Carrick's immediate impact as interim manager. "What a start for that man," he added. "That performance is the best I've seen from a Manchester United team in a long, long time. Michael Carrick knows the club, knows the culture, knows the DNA... and you saw that today."

Rooney has expressed his enjoyment of punditry, telling talkSPORT in June that he was focused on his television work. "I’m enjoying it," he said. "So, that’s where I’ll be."