Wayne Rooney, the former Manchester United and England forward, has taken on the role of manager at Plymouth Argyle, a club currently competing in the Championship, the second tier of English football. This appointment comes as part of a significant development for both Rooney and Sierra Leonean striker Mustapha Bundu, who recently joined Plymouth Argyle from Belgian club Anderlecht.

Mustapha Bundu, 26, has signed a two-year contract with the Pilgrims, adding to his career 14 international caps for Sierra Leone. Bundu's football journey has been notable, beginning at Craig Bellamy’s Football Academy in Freetown. He has also played for clubs including Hereford, AGF Aarhus, and Anderlecht before making his move to Plymouth Argyle.

Rooney’s new position follows the departure of Ian Foster, who was dismissed in April after a brief three-month tenure. Plymouth Argyle narrowly escaped relegation last season, finishing 21st in the Championship standings, just one point above the relegation zone.

Simon Hallett, the chairman of Plymouth Argyle, expressed his confidence in Rooney’s potential during the selection process. "Throughout the interview process, Wayne showed himself to be a passionate, intelligent, and knowledgeable candidate with an appetite to prove himself and develop his managerial career. He reached out to the board when we started this process and was attracted by the project at hand, showing a real plan on how to lead the football club forward," Hallett said in a statement.

Rooney brings with him a wealth of managerial experience. His previous roles include managing Birmingham City, Derby County, and Major League Soccer (MLS) side DC United. On his appointment, Rooney stated, "Taking this role at Plymouth Argyle feels like the perfect next step in my career – and I would like to thank the chairman and board for the faith they have shown in me."

As Plymouth Argyle looks ahead to the new season, the collaboration between Rooney and Bundu is expected to bring fresh dynamics to the team. The club's supporters and management are optimistic about the future under Rooney’s leadership, hoping for improved performances and a stronger position in the Championship standings.