United's Crown Jewel: Rooney's Peak Market Value

During the period between February 2012 and February 2013, Manchester United's talismanic striker Wayne Rooney reached the pinnacle of his market value, soaring to a staggering £65 million. This valuation cemented Rooney's status as one of the most coveted footballers on the planet and highlighted his immense contribution to the Red Devils.

A Match Made in Heaven

Rooney had joined United from Everton at the tender age of 18, and over the years, he had evolved into an indispensable part of the team. His ability to score goals, create chances, and dictate the tempo of matches made him a formidable force in the Premier League. As his performances continued to improve, so too did his market value.

The Factors Contributing to Rooney's Peak Value

Several factors contributed to Rooney's sky-high valuation during this period:

• Consistent Goalscoring: Rooney was a prolific goalscorer, regularly finding the net for United. His ability to score from various positions on the pitch made him a nightmare for opposing defenders.
• Leadership Qualities: As one of the most experienced players in the United squad, Rooney had taken on a leadership role. His influence on and off the pitch was invaluable to the team.
• Versatility: Rooney was capable of playing in a variety of positions, adding to his versatility and making him an even more attractive proposition for potential suitors.
• Age: At the peak of his physical powers, Rooney was still relatively young, suggesting that his best years were still ahead of him.

The Impact on Manchester United

Rooney's high market value had a significant impact on Manchester United. It:

• Strengthened the club's negotiating position: United were in a strong position to demand high fees for their star players.
• Attracted top talent: The presence of a world-class player like Rooney made it easier for United to attract other top players.
• Increased the club's commercial value: Rooney was a global superstar, and his association with United helped to increase the club's commercial appeal.

Why Did His Value Decline?

Despite reaching such lofty heights, Rooney's market value began to decline after 2013. Several factors contributed to this decline:

• Age: As Rooney got older, his pace and agility began to diminish.
• Injuries: A series of injuries disrupted his rhythm and limited his playing time.
• Emergence of new talent: The emergence of younger and more talented players at both club and international level reduced Rooney's perceived value.

Legacy

Regardless of the fluctuations in his market value, Rooney's legacy at Manchester United is secure. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the club's history and his contributions to the team will never be forgotten.