The question of who is truly shining in the Premier League this season has sparked debate, but Wayne Rooney has offered a surprising assessment, naming three players ahead of the widely acclaimed Erling Haaland.
Arsenal currently leads the table, but a cloud of uncertainty hangs over their star summer signing, Viktor Gyokeres. A hamstring injury has sidelined the striker, and his availability for the crucial upcoming match against Tottenham remains unknown. Manager Arteta is expected to address the situation publicly on Friday.
Rooney’s top three began with Antoine Semenyo of Bournemouth, praising his consistent brilliance and continuation of impressive form. He then highlighted Bryan Mbeumo’s impact at Manchester United, acknowledging a strong start despite the team’s initial struggles.
Completing Rooney’s selection was Gyokeres himself. The former Sporting striker, according to Rooney, has filled a long-standing need for Arsenal – a dynamic number nine who combines relentless work rate with a knack for finding the back of the net.
While Gyokeres has made an immediate impact, scoring four goals in his first ten Premier League appearances, he’s currently behind six other players in the goalscoring charts. This makes Rooney’s inclusion of him all the more intriguing.
The most notable omission from Rooney’s list was undoubtedly Erling Haaland. Despite a phenomenal run of form, netting 14 goals in just eight games, the Manchester City striker didn’t make the cut.
However, Rooney previously described Haaland as a “goalscoring machine” and acknowledged improvements in his all-around game this season. He pointed to enhanced hold-up play and link-up play as areas of growth.
Despite the praise, Rooney also suggested Haaland still has areas to refine. He noted a slight “sloppiness” in Haaland’s technique, particularly in close control and turning with the ball, though he conceded improvements are visible this season.
Rooney believes Haaland’s sheer goalscoring prowess means he doesn’t need to replicate the all-round game of a player like Didier Drogba, but acknowledged that continued development will only elevate his already exceptional talent.
Haaland will have an opportunity to add to his impressive tally when Manchester City faces Newcastle United this weekend, seeking to further cement his position as one of the league’s most feared attackers.
