Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has issued a stark warning to Premier League frontrunners Arsenal and Manchester City, insisting that Liverpool remain a genuine threat in the title race despite a significant points deficit.
Rooney's Surprising Title Verdict
Speaking on his BBC podcast, the former England captain, who won five league titles with Manchester United, acknowledged that Mikel Arteta's Arsenal and Pep Guardiola's City are the current favourites. However, he pointedly refused to dismiss the prospects of Arne Slot's Liverpool side.
"It looks like Arsenal and Man City are going to be the two to break away at the top of the Premier League now," Rooney stated. "Liverpool as well though, if they got a run of form and win a few games you never rule them out. If they get that support behind them they can have a say. I wouldn't rule them out."
Liverpool's Season of Contrasts
Rooney's comments come after a turbulent period for Liverpool. The Reds, who won the league by ten points in Slot's debut 2024/25 campaign, struggled for consistency earlier this season. A poor run from late September to the end of November appeared to have derailed their title defence.
The team has since shown resilience, embarking on a six-game unbeaten run following a heavy 4-1 Champions League defeat to PSV. A hard-fought victory over Tottenham on Saturday, December 22, 2025, lifted them to fifth place, though they remain ten points behind leaders Arsenal at Christmas.
Neville Backs Arsenal, Dismisses Villa
Rooney's former teammate, Gary Neville, offered a more definitive prediction on his Sky Sports podcast. The pundit believes Arsenal will end their long wait for a Premier League crown, last won in 2004.
"I'm drawing a line beneath the top-two," Neville said, ruling Aston Villa out of contention despite their fantastic season. "Aston Villa are there and should be respected but they're not going to win the league. I would be amazed if that happened."
Neville identified Manchester City, with Erling Haaland and Pep Guardiola, as the primary threat to Arsenal, alongside potential injuries to key Gunners like Declan Rice. He predicted Arsenal would build a five or six-point cushion by March, stating: "I think it's their year."
According to the latest odds from Betfair, Arsenal are clear favourites at 8/13, with Manchester City at 13/10. Liverpool and Aston Villa are both priced as outsiders at 25/1.
