The 16-year-old Manchester United youth player posted a photo on Instagram with the caption 'Back running.' The update comes after a difficult period for the young forward, who sustained a foot injury in September 2025 after being selected for the U19s squad. At the time, he posted a photo of a protective boot on his right foot with the caption 'Life can't get worse.'
Kai Rooney had been making progress in his youth career before the setback. In January, he made his first appearance at Old Trafford in the FA Youth Cup fourth round. He contributed two goals and an assist in 119 minutes of football for the U18s. He also attracted attention while playing for the Reds' youth side at the Super Cup in Northern Ireland in summer 2024.
Back running.
In March, his season was cut short by a serious injury. He posted on social media: 'Disappointed to be out for the rest of the season. Back stronger next pre-season.' The exact nature of the injury has not been confirmed. According to Daily Express - Sport, Wayne Rooney said there is no pressure on his son, describing him as 'a 15-year-old boy playing his football.' Kai Rooney's current age and the exact date of his latest Instagram post remain unclear.
Disappointed to be out for the rest of the season. Back stronger next pre-season.
Life can't get worse
I just let him play. I think they started the competition well, they won 3-0, he scored the penalty and got an assist. So I think he started OK. He just plays and that's all he's done during his time playing. I think it's very unfair for anyone to expect him to go and do all kinds. He's just playing, he's a 15-year-old boy playing his footb