Wayne Rooney's decision to walk out on Derby County should not come as a complete shock.
After all, there is probably no other manager that has had to put up with as much hassle and concern as the 36-year-old has over the past 18 months.
But many will still be surprised at the timing of the decision by the former England captain to leave his role with the troubled Rams - it comes just five weeks before the new EFL season begins and is hardly ideal preparation for the East Midlands club.
Questions over Derby's future remain amid an ongoing takeover saga and now the talk will also be about where Rooney is headed. The obvious links with Everton, the club he grew up supporting on the terraces before becoming a first team star, were quick to emerge on Friday.
But there are others who have also tenuously linked him with a return to Manchester United, where Rooney spent 13 trophy-laden years.
After entering the world of coaching it has been a regular poser put to him about one day being in the dugout at Old Trafford. Asked by Sky Sports if he would jump at the chance to manage United, back in February Rooney said: “Of course I would.
"At the minute obviously my focus is on Derby County and staying up [in the Championship], but Manchester United and Everton are the two clubs that are very close to me.
“Hopefully one day in the future I can manage one of those two clubs. It'd be a great achievement for me.”
With Erik ten Hag only just getting his feet under the table at United, Rooney's best chance to take charge of either of those two clubs would appear to be Everton, although Frank Lampard has himself only been in the post for five months.
Rooney is highly likely to be on the shortlist of many Championship and perhaps some top flight clubs, whenever a vacancy next arises.
Reflecting on his time at Derby which included transfer embargoes, points deductions, numerous failed takeovers and relegation, he said: "Personally, I feel the club now needs to be led by someone with fresh energy and not affected by the events that have happened over the last 18 months.
"I will remember my time at Derby with great pride and affection and would like to thank all my staff, players and of course the fans for their incredible support. I will never forget you and hope to see you all again in the near future and in happier times."
His exit comes amid growing hope that a deal can finally be concluded over the sale of the club. Administrators Quantuma confirmed that the sale of the club's Pride Park ground has now gone through with Clowes Developments purchasing it. It is hoped the removal of this hurdle will pave the way for a takeover to finally be ratified.
A spokeswoman on behalf of Quantuma said: “All parties recognise the need to conclude a sale of the business and assets of the club, as a matter of urgency."
