Kai signs scholarship and Klay trains abroad as Cass is released by Everton

Wayne Rooney’s four sons are carving out their own sporting paths, with eldest Kai signing a scholarship at Manchester United, Klay progressing through the club’s youth ranks, and youngest Cass recently released by Everton.

Kai, the most advanced of the quartet, returned to United’s academy at age 11 after spells with Manchester City’s youth set-up and time in the United States while his father played for DC United. He registered 56 goals and 28 assists in the 2021/22 season and made his Old Trafford debut in January when the under-18s defeated Derby 2-1 in an FA Youth Cup fixture. He has since signed a scholarship and is targeting a place in the first-team squad.

Speaking on the Disney+ docuseries The Real Rooneys, Wayne said he is determined to let Kai earn his opportunities on merit. “Kai wants his own legacy, and I’ll be there to support him. What I don’t want is him to get a scholarship or get a contract because of me. I want it to be because of him in his own right.”

Second-eldest Klay, 13, is also within United’s youth structure and has reportedly been travelling abroad for tournaments with the club since the age of eight. In 2025, Wayne watched Klay represent United’s under-12s at the MICFootball competition in Girona, where the side faced UE Quart.

Youngest son Cass, meanwhile, has been released by Everton, the club where his father is regarded as one of the greatest players in their history. The departure marks an early setback for the youngster.

Third son Kit appears to have stepped away from football altogether. Coleen Rooney has revealed the 10-year-old has shifted his focus to darts, with ambitions of turning professional in the sport. He marked his ninth birthday with a darts-themed celebration in January 2025.

Rooney, whose 253 goals make him Manchester United’s all-time leading scorer, has been open about wanting his sons to establish their own identities rather than trade on his name — a challenge that will only grow as Kai and Klay advance through the ranks at Old Trafford.