Wayne Rooney‘s son Kai has taken a major step in his budding football career after earning a shock call-up to Manchester United‘s Under-19 squad for the prestigious Mladen Ramljak Tournament in Croatia – despite being just 15 years old.
The teenager, who can play either as a No 9 or out wide, has been promoted three age groups following his standout performances at the Super Cup NI in Northern Ireland last week. Kai scored and assisted as United’s Under-16s reached the final, losing narrowly to Southampton.
Now, barely into his summer holidays, Kai is lining up against players up to four years older than him at one of Europe’s top youth tournaments. The Mladen Ramljak Memorial, hosted in Zagreb by Croatian giants Dinamo, has become a magnet for scouts and elite academy sides – with previous editions featuring the likes of Luka Modric, Marcelo Brozovic and Eduardo Camavinga.
United have been drawn into Group A alongside Rapid Bucuresti, Juventus and Dinamo Zagreb – the defending champions. Kai and his young teammates kick off their campaign on Thursday against Rapid. The tournament concludes on Sunday with placement matches and a final between the group winners.
Group B comprises Paris Saint-Germain, Benfica, Bologna and Shakhtar Donetsk – all of whom are represented by their top youth squads.
The Red Devils’ decision to fast-track Kai into the squad is being seen as a vote of confidence in his long-term potential. United are also understood to have included a handful of other younger players from their U15 and U16 ranks. That includes 14-year-old striker JJ Gabriel, the Nike-signed prodigy dubbed ‘Kid Messi‘, who scored twice on his Under-18 debut against Leeds earlier this year.
Fifteen-year-old Kai Rooney pictured in Northern Ireland last week at an Under 16 tournament, is set to represent Manchester United at an Under 19 competition in Croatia
Kai scored as United reached the final of the Super Cup NI and he will now play at a higher level
Kai was cheered on in NI by dad Wayne, mum Coleen and little brothers Kit and Cass. This picture also featured Michael Carrick (second left) alongside his wife and their son Jacey
This summer’s Mladen Ramljak Tournament will be hosted in Croatia by GNK Dinamo Zagreb
Kai’s call-up comes off the back of a strong showing in the Super Cup NI. The tournament – formerly known as the Milk Cup – holds special significance for the Rooneys, with Wayne having played in it himself for Everton back in 2000.
Wayne and wife Coleen were ever-present throughout the tournament, cheering from the stands alongside their younger sons Kit and Cass. They also took time out to enjoy the local attractions – including a visit to Curry’s Fun Park in Portrush, where Wayne and his sons were spotted on the bumper cars. The couple posed for photos with staff and mingled with onlookers, drawing praise for their down-to-earth demeanour.
After the final, Wayne posted a proud message on social media: ‘Great few days in Coleraine for the SuperCupNI. Well done to Kai and the Manchester United lads on a brilliant effort throughout the tournament. Congratulations to Southampton on the win. Thanks to everyone for the warm welcome.’
When asked about offering advice to his eldest son, Wayne said he prefers a hands-off approach. ‘He just plays, that’s what he’s always done. It’s unfair to expect too much — he’s only 15. But he handles the pressure of his surname very well.’
Kai joined United’s academy in 2020 at the age of 11 and has steadily worked his way through the youth ranks. His playing style draws natural comparisons to his father, while staff at United have praised his composure, movement off the ball, and eye for goal.