Wayne Rooney Reveals Why He Hopes Clever Arsenal Star Is Benched Against Man United

Wayne Rooney praises Gabriel Jesus intelligence but admits he hopes Arteta starts Viktor Gyokeres at the Emirates.

Wayne Rooney commentary on Gabriel Jesus has added spice to Arsenal’s looming Premier League showdown with Manchester United, with the former Red Devils captain openly admitting he hopes Mikel Arteta leaves the Brazilian out of his starting XI.

Speaking as a pundit after Arsenal’s impressive 3-1 Champions League win over Inter Milan, Rooney praised Jesus’ performance but revealed his Manchester United bias ahead of Sunday’s clash at the Emirates Stadium.

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Gabriel Jesus delivered one of his best performances of the season in midweek, scoring twice as Arsenal sealed qualification for the Champions League knockout rounds at the San Siro.

Arteta opted to start Jesus ahead of summer signing Viktor Gyokeres, a decision that paid off as the Brazilian struck either side of Inter’s equaliser. Gyokeres later came off the bench to add a third goal and cap a dominant Arsenal display.

After the match, Jesus played down any competition between Arsenal’s forwards.

“Everyone wants to start, but I’m very respectful. I was very happy Vik came on and scored,” Jesus said.

Rooney Calls Jesus ‘Clever’ but Hopes He Sits Out

Rooney was quick to acknowledge Jesus’ quality, highlighting what makes him such a difficult opponent.

“His movement in the box is clever,” Rooney said. “He’s very intelligent in the way he finds space.”

However, the Manchester United legend then admitted he would prefer Arteta not to unleash Jesus against his former club.

“If I’m being honest, I hope he doesn’t start on Sunday,” Rooney added, suggesting United would benefit if Gyokeres led the line instead.

Rooney also challenged Jesus’ mindset, insisting the forward should be demanding a starting role.

“If I was Gabriel Jesus now, I’d be knocking on the manager’s door saying, ‘I want to start this game.’”

Arteta now faces a major decision ahead of a crucial fixture in the title race. Jesus offers intelligence, pressing and big-game experience, while Gyokeres provides power, directness and a constant aerial threat.

Arsenal’s attacking depth has become one of their biggest strengths this season, but it also creates difficult calls in matches of this magnitude.

Why United Fans Share Rooney’s View

Manchester United arrive in north London on the back of renewed confidence following a derby win over Manchester City. Rooney knows better than most how dangerous Arsenal can be when their attackers find rhythm.

Jesus, a serial winner during his time at Manchester City, has a history of delivering in high-pressure matches. His sharp movement and link-up play could pose serious problems for United’s back line if given space.

Arsenal remain firmly in contention for the Premier League title, and victories in fixtures like this could define their season. United, meanwhile, are pushing to climb back into the Champions League places.

Rooney’s comments underline just how highly Jesus is rated by opposition legends — even those hoping not to see him on the pitch.

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