The Rooney name has returned to the Theatre of Dreams. On Friday night, January 23, 2026, Kai Rooney made his first-ever competitive appearance at Old Trafford as Manchester United U18s secured a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Derby County in the fourth round of the FA Youth Cup.
The 16-year-old forward, who has been prolific in the academy ranks, was introduced as a second-half substitute in front of a crowd of over 2,200—including his father, United legend Wayne Rooney, and interim first-team manager Michael Carrick, who watched from the directors' box.
A Tense Night at the Theatre of Dreams
Despite the star-studded lineup featuring the likes of Chido Obi and JJ Gabriel, United were forced to work overtime by a resilient Derby County side. After a goalless 90 minutes, the breakthrough finally came in extra time:
101’ - The Opener: A dangerous in-swinging cross from James Overy caused chaos in the Derby box, leading to an own goal by defender Luca Crolla.
103’ - The Clincher: Just two minutes later, Chido Obi doubled the advantage with a composed finish, sending the Stretford End into raptures.
The Nervy Finish: Derby pulled one back through Max Nessling in the 113th minute, but United held firm to progress to the fifth round.
Kai’s Big Moment
Rooney was introduced in the 99th minute for defender Godwill Kukonki as Darren Fletcher looked for more attacking impetus to avoid a penalty shootout.
The young Rooney immediately caught the eye with several sharp touches on the right wing, prompting chants of "Rooney, Rooney" from the home support—a nostalgic nod to the man who remains United’s all-time leading goalscorer.
Darren Fletcher (U18s Head Coach): "It’s a special moment for Kai. He’s worked incredibly hard to recover from a recent injury, and to make your Old Trafford debut in the Youth Cup is something he’ll never forget. But more importantly, the team showed the character needed to get past a very tough Derby side."
The Verdict: While the weight of his surname is immense, Kai Rooney is carving his own path. With Oxford United awaiting in the next round, the dream of a Youth Cup final at Old Trafford remains very much alive for the Class of 2026.