Wayne Rooney has stirred debate after revealing his three standout Premier League players of the season so far — with fans mocking both his selections and his managerial record.
Asked by Amazon Prime Sport to identify the league’s top performers, Rooney avoided the usual headline names and instead opted for three more unconventional choices.
His first pick was Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo, who has produced six goals and three assists in 11 matches.
“I think he’s been great for Bournemouth, carrying on his form from last season,” Rooney said.
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Next, he named Bryan Mbeumo, who has impressed at Manchester United despite what Rooney called “a difficult start for the club.”
Finally, Rooney chose Arsenal striker Viktor Gyökeres, praising his all-round impact.
“Arsenal have been crying out for a No 9… his determination, work rate and hold-up play have been good. Obviously, he’s scored a few goals as well.”
But the reaction online was unforgiving. Fans slammed Rooney for omitting runaway Golden Boot leader Erling Haaland, who already has 14 league goals and recently fired Norway to their first ever World Cup. Others pointed out the absence of midfield stars like Moisés Caicedo, Declan Rice and Granit Xhaka.
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Some supporters went further, linking Rooney’s choices to his struggles as a manager.
“It’s no great shock he’s not cracked it as a coach with this take,” one fan commented.
Another added: “I like Rooney but this is clearly why he constantly fails as a manager.”
Rooney has yet to return to the dugout after a disastrous spell at Birmingham City, but his punditry career is gaining traction. Liverpool legend Graeme Souness even defended him.
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“I like listening to Wayne Rooney… he talks common sense,” Souness said. “He was a real warrior. He’s got authority, so I can listen to him.”
Rooney’s picks may not have impressed supporters — but they’ve certainly kept him at the centre of the conversation.
Photo: Carl Recine/Getty Images
