Rooney Names Arsenal and Manchester City as Favourites for Premier League Title
Former Manchester United star Wayne Rooney believes that the Premier League title race is now a two-horse battle between Arsenal and Manchester City, ruling out Liverpool’s chances after their heavy defeat at the Etihad Stadium.
Speaking on his BBC podcast following City’s emphatic 3-0 victory over Liverpool on Sunday, Rooney said it would now be “difficult” for Jürgen Klopp’s men to stay in contention for the title.
The result leaves Liverpool eight points behind league leaders Arsenal, while Manchester City are just four points adrift of the Gunners heading into the international break.
Arsenal had earlier dropped points in a dramatic 2-2 draw against Sunderland, conceding a 94th-minute equalizer from Brian Broberry on Saturday.
“I think it will be difficult for Liverpool now,” Rooney said.
“I know Arsenal dropped points at the weekend, but you look at their form overall and the way Man City are coming into a great run — it will be difficult for Liverpool.
But it’s still early in the season, so you never know. I just think Arsenal and Man City are the two favourites now.”
Opinion: Rooney Might Be Right — The Premier League Race Looks Set for an Arsenal vs. City Showdown
Rooney’s assessment may not please Liverpool fans, but it’s hard to argue with his logic. Arsenal and Manchester City have been the most consistent and balanced teams in the league so far.
Arsenal, under Mikel Arteta, have shown maturity and resilience — traits they lacked in previous campaigns. Their ability to grind out results, even when not at their best, shows a team evolving into genuine title material.
Manchester City, on the other hand, are doing what City always do — start slow, then shift into unstoppable gear as the season progresses. Pep Guardiola’s men have found rhythm, and once that happens, history suggests they rarely let go of momentum.
Liverpool’s 3-0 defeat wasn’t just a setback — it was a reminder that their title challenge still lacks the defensive sharpness and midfield balance seen in their 2019–2020 peak.
So yes, Rooney’s prediction feels realistic. The Premier League title may once again come down to a chess match between Arteta’s youthful energy and Guardiola’s proven brilliance.
And for neutral fans, that’s exactly the kind of drama the Premier League is built for.
