Wayne Rooney set to captain England

For Manchester United supporters, the sight of a club legend pulling on an England shirt again is always enough to stir a bit of nostalgia.

This summer, one of Old Trafford’s greatest-ever forwards will once again lead the line on a big stage in the capital.

Wayne Rooney has been confirmed as England captain for a high-profile clash at the London Stadium on May 31, 2026, a fixture that promises star names, a packed crowd and plenty of pride on the line.

The opposition will be anything but straightforward.

Former United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar is set to feature for the World XI, while ex-Barcelona defender Jordi Alba adds further pedigree to the backline.

Italian stalwart Leonardo Bonucci is also part of a squad designed to test England’s firepower.

In the dugouts, the personalities are just as eye-catching.

Sprint icon Usain Bolt will oversee the World XI, while Soccer Aid co-founder Robbie Williams takes charge of England.

The home side will mark 60 years since the 1966 World Cup triumph by wearing a special white kit inspired by the Alf Ramsey era.

The match forms part of the 20th anniversary of Soccer Aid for Unicef, an initiative launched in 2006 that has grown into one of the most recognisable charity events in the football calendar.

More than 60,000 fans are expected at the London Stadium, with funds raised supporting UNICEF and its global programmes for vulnerable children.

Wayne Rooney, who recently admitted he has gone deaf in his left ear, is relishing the opportunity to be involved once again.

As per The Sun, he said: “I can’t wait for Soccer Aid for Unicef this year and to wear the England shirt once again for the 20th anniversary,” said Rooney.

“It’s England against World XI at the London Stadium on May 31 and this year we want nothing less than an England win.

“Me, Coleen and the boys love the atmosphere and the brilliant family occasion that Soccer Aid for Unicef always is.”

He also underlined why the occasion means more than just football.

“The kids enjoy seeing football legends alongside their favourite celebrities and influencers on the same pitch,” said Rooney.

“Last year, Coleen travelled to Poland with Unicef and saw first-hand how the money raised is supporting children with disabilities who fled the war in Ukraine, so they can continue their education and simply be kids once again.

“So please buy a ticket and support this amazing cause, which changes children’s lives around the world.”

For United fans, it’s another chance to see a club icon lead from the front.