Wayne Rooney has stunned TV viewers with a sharp new look as a BBC pundit during the FIFA World Cup in the US.

What happened to Wayne Rooney’s on-screen image?

The former England captain swapped his playing boots for studio analysis this summer, but it’s his clean-shaven face and toned physique that have grabbed attention. Fans took to social media to call the 40-year-old “a 30-year-old” after his first appearances for the BBC team. A source told The Sun the change was no accident — Coleen Rooney had quietly pushed her husband to tighten his routine before the World Cup trip.

How Coleen Rooney shaped the transformation

Coleen Rooney reportedly spotted her husband wasn’t happy with his appearance and acted fast. She put Wayne on a diet and exercise plan weeks before he flew to the US, according to the source. The couple worked out together in their home gym and hired a personal trainer for sessions at their house. They also booked facials and shopping sprees to polish his wardrobe for the cameras.

Why the makeover matters for Wayne Rooney’s punditry

After a rocky spell in management post-playing, Wayne Rooney has found his footing as a pundit. His World Cup analysis has drawn praise, and the visual upgrade is seen as a boost to his on-screen authority. The BBC’s coverage has kept him in the spotlight during the tournament, giving him a platform to rebuild his public profile beyond goals and trophies.

What’s next for Wayne Rooney?

The 40-year-old is still in the middle of the World Cup broadcast run. With Coleen’s brands under pressure from the ongoing Rebekah Vardy feud, her focus remains split between supporting her husband and protecting her own ventures. Wayne’s punditry stint could run through the knockout stages, giving him a rare chance to shine while off the pitch.