Who are DC United? All you need to know about Wayne Rooney’s potential employers in Washington
Rooney set for his debut at a new 20,000 purpose-built Audi Field stadium which is being used from July
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WAYNE ROONEY looks as though he is quitting the Premier League for DC United in the MLS.
The 32-year-old Everton superstar's £12.5million transfer could be effective from July 10 when the MLS transfer window opens.
Former England and Manchester United skipper Rooney has been offered a contract until the end of the 2020.
But who are DC United? Where do they stand in the great scheme of world soccer?
Tell me exactly how the Washington-based club are faring?
Well, not very well. DC United are bottom of the Eastern Conference, having won just one of their opening seven games.
It's been a struggle in recent seasons. They finished 21st out of 22 teams in both MLS divisions in 2017.
It sounds like they need a talisman then...
Absolutely. Rooney is the world figure that could transform their fortunes, motivate both the squad and the fans and bring the club into sharper focus media-wise.
Who owns DC United?
DC United are co-owned, with the duo in charge also having interests elsewhere.
Jason Levien will be familiar to Swansea City fans as he co-owns the Premier League side.
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The other is Erick Thohir, the Indonesian businessman who is also chairman and co-owner of Inter Milan, through his International Sports Capital Group.
DC United's team president is Tom Hunt and Ben Olsen is the current head coach.
Tell me about the club's history?
They were actually founded in 1996.
DC United were MLS Cup winners in 1996, 1997, 1999 and 2004.
They lifted the Supporters Shield winners - awarded for team with best normal season record - in 1997, 1999, 2006 and 2007.
What is their stadium like?
All change - DC United currently play at the 45,000-capacity Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Stadium, where they averaged 17,000 crowds last year.
Rooney will make his debut at a new 20,000 purpose-built Audi Field stadium which is being used from July.
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What can Rooney expect from life in the MLS?
It won't be that hard..
If he joins on July 10 Roo faces 14 of 19 home games in the second half of the season. So he can ease himself into club life in his first season when constant tgravel will not be part of the equation.