Wayne Rooney has emerged as a long-shot candidate in the betting to become Aberdeen’s next manager, despite not returning to the dugout since his dismissal by Plymouth Argyle in 2024. The former Manchester United and England forward made a promising start to his managerial career at Derby County, earning praise for his work under difficult circumstances. However, his reputation has suffered in recent years following unsuccessful spells at Birmingham City and Plymouth Argyle, with both clubs ultimately relegated after his departure. Since leaving Plymouth, Rooney has stepped away from frontline management and has instead focused on media work as a pundit. Despite this, his name continues to surface when vacancies arise, with Aberdeen the latest club to be linked. Aberdeen are currently searching for a new head coach after parting company with Jimmy Thelin at the start of 2026. The Dons sit eighth in the Scottish Premiership and face the real prospect of missing out on European qualification this season. Going into Sunday’s clash with Rangers FC, the club have yet to appoint a permanent successor. A report published on 9 January stated that Aberdeen director of football Lutz Pfannenstiel has drawn up a shortlist of potential candidates, including experienced German coach Uwe Rösler. Bookmakers, however, see Rooney as an outsider for the role. One firm has installed him as the 10th favourite, pricing the 39-year-old at 33/1 to take charge at Pittodrie. Who is the favourite for the Aberdeen job? The current favourite in the betting is Jens Berthel Askou, who is priced at 2/1. The Motherwell boss has impressed this season, guiding his side to fourth place in the Premiership and into contention for European qualification. Next in the market is German coach Markus Gisdol at 4/1. The 56-year-old has managed extensively across Europe, most recently in Turkey with Kayserispor, although a lack of experience in British football could be viewed as a risk. Rösler remains among the leading contenders at 5/1, although he has publicly played down the speculation. Speaking to German outlet BILD on 9 January, the current VfL Bochum manager stressed his commitment to his current role. “Lutz brought me to Düsseldorf, and we worked very well together. I have a high opinion of him,” Rösler said. “But I am 100 per cent committed to VfL Bochum.”