Is Wayne Rooney’s Favorite to Win the Premier League Manchester United?

The Red Devils’ all-time leading goalscorer is ready for the start of the English season and has weighed in on the top contenders for the Premier League title.

Wayne Rooney has a clear idea of who should be considered the favorite to win the 2026-27 Premier League, and it is not Manchester United. The legendary Red Devils striker believes Arsenal are in the strongest position to defend their title and warned that his former club still needs time before it can seriously challenge for the championship.

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Why Does Rooney Consider Arsenal the Favorites?

Speaking on the popular Stick to United podcast, Rooney identified Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal as the leading contenders for the title. The former striker even envisions a scenario in which the Gunners could pull away from the rest of the field.

“Arsenal have the potential to run away with the title,” Rooney said, believing the reigning champions have a significant advantage over their main rivals.

The former Manchester United star also pointed out that the title race will be difficult, with Manchester City, Liverpool, Chelsea and Tottenham all entering the new season amid major changes and different stages of development.

“You’re looking at Arsenal and Manchester City; Chelsea will be much better this season, Tottenham will be better. You’ve also got Liverpool. So it will be difficult,” he explained.

Rooney placed particular emphasis on the changes in the dugout. Manchester City are entering the post-Pep Guardiola era, while Liverpool are also going through a transition, factors that could have a major impact on the title race.

What About Manchester United? Rooney Calls for Patience

Despite being one of the biggest icons in Manchester United history, Rooney does not believe it is realistic to expect the Red Devils to win the Premier League this season.

Michael Carrick’s side finished third in the 2025-26 Premier League and returned to the Champions League, but the former England international believes the next step should be establishing themselves among the top four.

“I’d take fourth place. I think maybe fourth; we still need to bring in two or three players,” Rooney said.

The former England international also praised Carrick’s work: “Michael Carrick did a fantastic job getting Manchester United back into the Champions League. Now the club has to stay there.”

However, he ruled out United mounting a serious title challenge: “I don’t think it’s realistic to think they’re going to win the Premier League this year. I don’t think they will.”

Rooney believes United’s priority should be staying within striking distance of Arsenal, whom he considers even stronger after their summer reinforcements.

“It’s very important for United to stay close enough to Arsenal, who are the champions and will be even better this season,” he concluded.

As Manchester United look to consolidate their return to the elite under Michael Carrick, Wayne Rooney has backed Arsenal as his top pick to lift the Premier League trophy once again.