Rooney Evaluates Arsenal’s Squad Dynamics and Arteta’s Leadership

omidbasir- Wayne Rooney has remarked that Mikel Arteta’s current squad lacks a standout player with world-class ability, yet the league leaders are excelling as a cohesive unit. Notably, no Arsenal player has yet scored double digits in the Premier League this season, with Viktor Gyokeres currently leading with eight goals. Other contributors like Martin Zubimendi, Leandro Trossard, Declan Rice, and Bukayo Saka have made sporadic contributions, contrasting sharply with Manchester City’s reliance on Erling Haaland, who has netted 22 goals in 26 league appearances this season—nearly three times more than Arsenal’s top scorer.

During his appearance on The Overlap Fan Debate with Sky Bet, Rooney asserted that, despite the presence of talented players like Rice and Saka, Arsenal lacks a true superstar to carry the team. He stated, “I agree that Arsenal don’t have an out-and-out superstar, a world-class player to lean on. However, what we’ve observed over recent years is their ability to win games without that specific player. I believe some Arsenal fans and former players are overly critical.”

He further commented on Martin Keown’s opinion about the significance of a six-point lead compared to a nine-point lead, calling it an indication of anxiety from an experienced player. Rooney praised Mikel Arteta for his composure and effective media engagement, highlighting his ability to calm the team amidst external pressures. “Quality-wise, Arsenal have a lot to offer. Do they possess that game-changing player like Ronaldo, Didier Drogba, or Sergio Agüero? I don’t think so, but they have demonstrated their capacity to win matches consistently over the past three years.”

While Rooney’s evaluation of Arsenal’s roster may appear critical, he expressed admiration for Arteta’s accomplishments this season. The pressure is immense on the Gunners to end their lengthy wait for a league title and secure their first trophy since 2020. Rooney stated, “Of course Arsenal can win the league, but there is still a third of the season remaining, so anything is possible. Aston Villa has not been mentioned, and while I don’t expect them to challenge for the title, they remain in close proximity.”

He remains optimistic that Arsenal will clinch the league title, citing their strength and Arteta’s outstanding leadership this year. Rooney noted, “I believe Arsenal will win it; they are too strong and powerful. Arteta has been brilliant this season. He has managed the pressure well, which has positively influenced the players.”

In his prediction, Rooney concluded that while Arsenal will likely succeed, Manchester City will pose a significant challenge, adding, “I just can’t envision City winning every match while Arsenal drops points.”

With Arsenal competing on multiple fronts this season, they face the challenge of playing twice a week. After their FA Cup victory over Wigan on Sunday, they look forward to a Premier League fixture against Wolves on Wednesday night, followed by a crucial north London derby against Tottenham.