Wayne and Coleen Rooney were spotted looking rather glum during a pre-anniversary dinner date last week, but reports indicate that there is a very different picture of their relationship.
Despite their downcast appearance, it was revealed that the 39-year-old pair are experiencing their happiest period together.
"At the moment, their marriage has never been better or stronger," the source disclosed to the Mirror.
The couple, who will celebrate their 17th wedding anniversary on 12 July, have weathered numerous public storms throughout their relationship.
Wayne and Coleen Rooney have had their tough moments throughout their marriage
PAFrom cheating scandals to legal troubles and the high-profile Wagatha Christie court battle with Rebekah Vardy, their journey has been far from smooth.
"They've had a lot of heartbreak and troubles," the source acknowledged, noting that many doubted the childhood sweethearts would survive their various crises.
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The couple first met as young teenagers on their local Croxteth estate, beginning a relationship that would endure despite extraordinary public scrutiny.
Their bond, formed in those early years, would be tested repeatedly as Wayne's career as a Manchester United footballer brought fame and fortune alongside temptation and controversy.
"Wayne has put his hands up and apologised for his fair share of them but they've made it through it all when a lot of people thought they wouldn't," the source stated to the Mirror.
The former England striker's indiscretions began in 2009 with allegations of a threesome whilst Coleen was pregnant with their eldest son, Kai.
Eight years later, Wayne faced drink-driving charges after police stopped him with party-goer Laura Simpson in his vehicle.
Following the arrest, Coleen took to Facebook with a candid statement about their marriage in what appeared to be a 'make-or-break' moment in their relationship.
"I know my own mind and it's something I want to try and work on," she wrote, despite acknowledging "it has been a s*** time."
More recently, controversy erupted over a heavily-edited video from Wayne's Plymouth Argyle manager apartment showing a tracksuit-clad figure letting a woman inside. Wayne swiftly released an Instagram statement denying any wrongdoing.
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Wayne and Coleen have worked through their problems and have four children together
InstagramThe Wagatha Christie court case with Rebekah Vardy added another layer of drama to their public trials.
The Wagatha Christie trial unexpectedly strengthened their bond. "Wayne was so supportive and that really meant a lot to Coleen," the source revealed.
In their 2022 documentary, Coleen addressed their lowest moments directly. "When you're making those decisions you've got to focus on what you want and not other people," she explained, acknowledging the chorus of critics questioning her choices.
"Obviously, I listen to the people that matter to me, my mum and dad; they've always given me a positive outlook on things," she added.
Her recent I'm A Celebrity stint saw her finish as runner-up, with viewers embracing her unpolished, humorous side.
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Speaking on the Stick To Football podcast this year, she dismissed doubters: "People are so opinionated, but I've always thought that it's my life, so let me get on with it."
The couple, who share four sons - Kai, 15, Klay, 12, Kit, nine, and Cass, seven - remain committed to their family unit despite external pressures.
"Coleen has loved Wayne since she was 16. It's a love that can't be broken and they're really happy to be celebrating their anniversary in such a great place," the source stated.
The insider emphasised their resilience: "They've honestly been through so many ups and downs but they've got a wonderful family and, despite everything, have managed to remain in love and strong after all these years."
As they approach their milestone anniversary, the source concluded: "Coleen couldn't be happier they've made it through and is now glad she always stuck with it."
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