Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has thrown his weight behind Arsenal in the 2025/26 Premier League title race, declaring that Mikel Arteta’s side looks too “strong and powerful” to be caught by Manchester City.
Despite a recent slip-up—a dramatic 2–2 draw against Wolves on Wednesday, February 18, where Arsenal blew a two-goal lead—Rooney insists the Gunners remain the favorites to lift the trophy.
The “United Connection” Dilemma
Rooney admitted that his loyalty to Manchester United makes it impossible for him to root for their historic rivals, which leaves Arsenal as his preferred choice for the title.
“I’ve played for Manchester United for 13 years! For me, Liverpool is the place I wouldn’t want to win it, and then it would be City. I’d much prefer Arsenal to win it,” Rooney stated.
The Champions League Factor
Rooney highlighted a potential collision course in Europe as the deciding factor for the domestic crown. He believes that if the two giants meet in the Champions League later this spring, the winner of that tie will gain the emotional momentum needed to secure the league title.
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The Crucial Fixture: Rooney pointed to the upcoming showdown at the Etihad Stadium (Game Week 33) as the definitive moment of the season.
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Arteta’s Growth: He praised Mikel Arteta for handling the pressure “spot on” this year, compared to the wobbles of previous seasons.
Opta Supercomputer: Arsenal Still “Absolute Favorites”
While fans are nervous after the Wolves draw, the statisticians at Opta agree with Rooney. Their latest supercomputer prediction (updated February 19, 2026) still heavily favors the North London side:
The Road Ahead
Arsenal currently holds a five-point lead, but Manchester City has a game in hand against Crystal Palace. If Pep Guardiola’s men win that match, the gap shrinks to just two points, putting immense pressure on the Gunners ahead of their North London Derby clash this weekend.