When John Rooney beamed with pride after orchestrating Macclesfield's monumental FA Cup victory over Crystal Palace, it wasn't just the tactical masterclass that had people talking. The 35-year-old manager's radiant, Hollywood-worthy smile became an instant sensation, almost outshining the historic 2-1 win itself.
The Smile That Stole the Show
As the final whistle blew on a result that mathematically stands as the biggest shock in FA Cup history, John stood pitch-side next to his emotional brother, Wayne. One viewer on X quipped they needed sunglasses to avoid being dazzled by John's new teeth. For a man who spent 25 years in the shadow of his legendary sibling, the spotlight was finally, and brightly, his.
Dental and aesthetics experts were quick to analyse the change. Dr Ducu Botoaca, an aesthetics doctor, told the Daily Mail that straighter, brighter teeth can dramatically alter someone's appearance, creating a fresher, more balanced, and youthful look without any facial surgery.
While the exact timeline is unclear, analysis of photos from his playing career suggests the transformation likely occurred in late 2019 or early 2020 during his time at Barrow. Earlier images show a significant gap on the upper left side of his mouth. The first social media comment noting his "new teeth" appeared in January 2020.
More Than Just a Winning Smile
Experts believe John's impressive on-camera presence isn't solely down to dentistry. Dr Botoaca suggested that improved skincare, lifestyle habits, professional treatments, and the confidence from a career high have all contributed to a natural "glow up". Dr Apul Parikh added that he may use quality skincare or have had subtle "tweakments" like anti-wrinkle injections.
This isn't the first time the Rooney family has invested in their appearance. Wayne famously underwent hair transplants in 2011 and 2013. John, however, has always maintained a strong hairline.
The historic victory saw sixth-tier Macclesfield defeat Premier League Crystal Palace, a team 117 places above them in the English football pyramid. The emotional scenes were capped by Wayne, on punditry duty, struggling to hold back tears of pride for his younger brother.
A Quiet Journey Out of the Shadow
John's path has been markedly quieter than his brother's very public life. A journeyman footballer, he played for 11 clubs including spells in the USA with New York Red Bulls and Orlando City, before returning to England with clubs like Barnsley, Bury, and Wrexham.
Growing up in Croxteth, Merseyside, all three Rooney brothers came through Everton's academy. John once told The Express about forging his own path: "People are obviously going to bring Wayne up but I’ve got my own career. I’ve got to put myself first."
His moment arrived on Saturday, breaking into the national consciousness not just as Wayne's brother, but as the architect of a genuine footballing miracle. The fairytale continues for Macclesfield with an FA Trophy trip to Woking and a Valentine's Day date with Premier League Brentford in the FA Cup fourth round. And if they win, you can bet John Rooney will be flashing that famous smile.
