Wayne Rooney admits 'I could have died' as Man Utd legend opens up on alcohol abuse

Wayne Rooney has candidly opened up about his struggle with alcohol addiction, confessing that he could have lost his life if it hadn't been for the support of his wife, Coleen. Rooney is celebrated as one of the most exceptional footballers of his era, having had an illustrious career with England and Manchester United.

The ex-striker still holds the record as United's top scorer of all time, and was also England's leading goalscorer until Harry Kane surpassed him. However, in a revealing discussion on the podcast, Rooney disclosed his ongoing battle with alcohol.

He confessed to going to extreme lengths to conceal his drinking from Sir Alex Ferguson, including using eye drops and chewing gum before heading to training.

Rooney shared: "I wanted to go out and enjoy my time with my friends and having a night out. It got to a point where I went too far, of course it did.

"That was a moment in my life where I was struggling massively. With alcohol. Massively struggling and I didn't think I could turn to anyone.

"I didn't really want to, because I didn't want to put that burden on anyone. I remember going into training and putting eyes drops in, chewing gum.

"I just drank for two days straight. Go training and at the weekend, I'd scored two goals and then I'd go back and go and drink for two days straight again."

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Rooney has credited his wife Coleen with saving his life, stating: "Coleen is massive. It's bad because we're two kids from Croxteth, and then we grew up together and obviously we started dating and got married and have kids.

"But when I was 17 she could see, she knew my mind and she knew I was a bit out there.

"You know, I loved my football. I was obsessed with football, but also I loved a night out or whatever going out.

"She's seen it very early on, and she's controlled that. Well, not controlled, but helped me control that massively.

"And at times you're like, 'what are you doing? Why do you keep saying don't do this or don't do that?".

"I honestly believe if she weren't there I'd be dead. I believe that.

"I've made mistakes in the past, which are well documented and whatever, but I'm a little bit different at times and she keeps me on that path. She's done it for 20-odd years."

Listen to the full Rio Meets Wayne Rooney interview on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.