Wayne Rooney, one of Manchester United’s all-time greats and a fierce rival of Arsenal during his playing days, has made a surprising admission: he wants the Gunners to win the Premier League.
For years, Rooney was at the heart of Manchester United’s battles with Arsène Wenger’s Arsenal from high-stakes title races to fiery clashes between the two sides.
But now, in an unexpected twist, the former striker has expressed his preference for Arsenal over Liverpool, despite being a lifelong United supporter.
On his BBC podcast The Wayne Rooney Show, Rooney explained the dilemma he faced: whether to back Liverpool, who are chasing their 21st league title and edging closer to overtaking United’s record, or Arsenal, who have not lifted the Premier League trophy in over two decades.
“Listen, I don’t like Arsenal, but I would much rather them win the league than Liverpool. I like what they’re doing, they’re figuring out the fan, the way they’re being difficult to beat. They don’t concede many goals and I just think there’s something happening.” Rooney revealed.
The former England captain went further, praising Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta, a manager whose passion and methods have sometimes been described as unorthodox.
“I really hope they do because I really like Arteta as well. He’s a bit mad in all his methods, but lucky enough to have sat down and had a chat with him at times. I really like him, so I hope they do.”
Rooney believes Arsenal’s current side has the mental toughness required to go the distance in the title race.
“This is a different Arsenal. I think the mentality is good. I think they are a strong-minded team.” he said, highlighting the growth of a squad that has often been criticized in the past for faltering under pressure.
According to Rooney, the Gunners now possess the character and resilience of true champions.
“They’ve got good characters in there. To win the Premier League, you have to overcome challenges. You have to go to Newcastle and go beyond and stay calm, stay relaxed. That’s what champions do.”
For a player who spent much of his career trying to deny Arsenal silverware, Rooney’s endorsement is both surprising and significant.
His words echo the wider footballing world’s recognition of Arsenal’s transformation under Arteta, a young, hungry, and increasingly composed team that could finally bring an end to their 20-year title drought.
