Football legend Wayne Rooney has stirred controversy by revealing his three standout players of the Premier League season so far, with his surprising selections causing a major divide among fans on social media.
Rooney's Controversial Choices
Speaking to Amazon Prime Sport ahead of the Premier League's return this weekend, the former Manchester United and England captain bypassed the division's usual star names in favour of what many consider unexpected picks. Rooney first selected Bournemouth's Antoine Semenyo, who has contributed six goals and three assists in his 11 appearances for the Cherries.
"I think he's been very good at Bournemouth, maintaining his form from last season," Rooney began. His second choice raised even more eyebrows as he named Bryan Mbeumo, praising the forward's performances despite Manchester United's difficult start to the campaign.
Completing his trio, Rooney selected Arsenal's new number nine, Viktor Gyokeres. "Arsenal have been crying out for a number nine for a few years, and he's come in," Rooney explained. "His determination, his work rate, his hold-up play has been good. Obviously, he's scored a few goals as well."
Social Media Backlash and Notable Omissions
The reaction from football fans online was immediate and largely critical, with many highlighting the glaring absence of Manchester City's goal machine Erling Haaland. The Norwegian striker leads the scoring charts with 14 league goals already this season and recently helped his national team achieve historic World Cup qualification.
Commentators didn't just question Haaland's omission but also noted the absence of midfield stars such as Chelsea's Moises Caicedo, Gyokeres's Arsenal teammate Declan Rice, and Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka from Rooney's list.
Some social media users went further, suggesting his unconventional choices highlighted why he has struggled in management since his unsuccessful spell at Birmingham City. "Not a huge surprise he hasn't succeeded as a manager with this take," wrote one user, while another added: "I like Rooney, but it's clear why he constantly fails as a manager."
Praise for Rooney's Punditry
Despite the criticism of his player selections and managerial prospects, Rooney has received significant praise for his transition into broadcasting. Graeme Souness counts himself among Rooney's admirers, telling the Daily Mail Sport: "I like listening to Wayne Rooney as a pundit because he talks common sense."
"If you have to put together an all-time Manchester United team, Wayne Rooney is one of the first names on the list: he was a proper warrior," Souness continued. "I love Wayne Rooney as a player and I like listening to him, he has authority, so I can take notice of him. I turn the volume down on some of the other pundits."
The debate continues as football fans await the Premier League's return this weekend, with many watching Rooney's chosen players with renewed interest.
