Manchester United Legend Brands 2010 World Cup in South Africa the ‘Worst Ever’

Former England and Manchester United star Wayne Rooney has sharply criticised the 2010 World Cup, describing the tournament in South Africa as the "worst" he experienced and lamenting its "pitch black" atmosphere.

While the first World Cup on African soil is fondly remembered by many football icons as a special and vibrant event, Rooney's assessment stands in stark contrast. Players like Andres Iniesta, Gianluigi Buffon, Thomas Muller, and Diego Forlán have all previously praised the 2010 tournament.

However, Rooney, who was a key player for England at the time, holds a completely different view. Speaking on The Overlap, he explained his disappointment.

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“Listen, you couldn’t have had a worse World Cup than in South Africa,” Rooney stated. “You know what I mean? The atmosphere in the stadium was okay, but I mean the trip itself.”

“Before the first game against the USA, we were driving to the stadium — total darkness around, no fans nearby. Usually, when you’re going to a World Cup game, fans greet you everywhere, there’s an incredible atmosphere. There was nothing. It didn’t feel like a World Cup at all,” added the former England captain.

Rooney's personal performance at the tournament was underwhelming as he did not manage a goal or assist for England, who were knocked out of the Round of 16 in controversial fashion by Germany.

He started all four of England's matches against the USA, Algeria, Slovenia as well as the heartbreaking defeat to Germany.

However, Rooney feels the upcoming 2026 World which is set to be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada, will be one of the best tournaments ever.

“In America, it will be different. There will be lots of fans. I think it’s going to be really cool,” added the former DC United striker and coach.

“The conditions will be tough — I mean flights and prices, that’s an issue for people. But the one thing I’ll say about Americans: they’re the best at organizing sporting events. They’re the biggest and the best at it, so the tournament will be top class.”