Rooney to join Ibra and Beckham in boosting MLS, says Arena

Zlatan Ibrahimovic and David Beckham have set the standard for Wayne Rooney to follow in MLS, says Bruce Arena.

Wayne Rooney's arrival at DC United will have a similar impact on MLS to that of Zlatan Ibrahimovic and David Beckham, says Bruce Arena.

It was confirmed on Thursday that Rooney had joined DC from Everton, agreeing terms on a three-and-a-half-year deal.

Rooney leaves Goodison Park after just one season back with his boyhood club, following a trophy-laden spell at Manchester United that saw him become the club's record scorer.

Now retired from international football at the age of 32, having also become England's most prolific marksman, Rooney is seeking a fresh challenge and former DC, New York Red Bulls and LA Galaxy coach Arena believes the presence of top stars in the MLS will only encourage greater participation at grass roots level.