Wayne Rooney, the Manchester United and England icon, admits one key regret from his illustrious career: never suiting up for Celtic, his longtime favorite club.

The 40-year-old forward enjoyed two spells at Everton, bookended by a 13-year tenure at Manchester United where he made 559 appearances. He later moved to DC United and Derby County. Rooney also earned 120 caps for England.

Planning a Celtic Swan Song

During his peak years at Old Trafford, Rooney envisioned wrapping up his playing days at Celtic, but the move never materialized.

Best Atmosphere: Celtic Park Magic

Rooney highlights Celtic Park as delivering the finest atmosphere he experienced. Best atmosphere, I’d have to say Celtic Park, he stated. To play at Celtic in 2006, we actually lost the game 1-0, but to play there and feel that atmosphere was incredible.

Most Hostile: Rangers Clash

In contrast, he cites a 2010 Champions League match at Rangers as the most intimidating. Rangers away in 2010, Rooney recalled. I’d played there for Everton in a pre-season game and I’m a big Celtic fan. I went to Ibrox to watch the Old Firm, to watch Celtic there, sat in the Celtic end.

He faced intense personal pressure after recently returning to Manchester United amid speculation. Rooney converted a penalty and celebrated defiantly amid the boos. They battered me… I felt it against me, he said, noting heavy criticism on social media at the time.

It’s well known… that I’m a Celtic fan. It’s probably one of my regrets, not playing for Celtic at some point, Rooney added.

Roots of His Celtic Passion

Though raised an Everton supporter and emerging from their academy with a senior debut in 2002, Rooney developed a deep affinity for Celtic early on. Just growing up as a kid, I’ve always liked Celtic, he explained. When I was growing up there was Henrik Larsson, Chris Sutton up top, John Hartson… Some of the players Celtic have had and moments they’ve given us, incredible.

Throughout his prime, I always thought I’d love to play for Celtic at the end of my career. Obviously it wasn’t to be, Rooney reflected.