Wayne Rooney has backed Arsenal to win the UEFA Champions League this season after the Gunners booked their place in the final with a dramatic victory over Atlético Madrid.
The former Manchester United captain believes Mikel Arteta’s side have shown the mentality, consistency and belief needed to become champions of Europe for the first time in the club’s history. Rooney reportedly made the prediction following Arsenal’s tense semi-final triumph, insisting that this could finally be the year the North London side complete their European dream.
Arsenal secured their place in the Champions League final after defeating Atlético Madrid 2-1 on aggregate, with Bukayo Saka scoring the decisive goal at the Emirates Stadium in a performance that highlighted the team’s growing maturity and defensive discipline.
Rooney was especially impressed by the atmosphere inside the Emirates during the semi-final clash, reportedly saying it felt completely different compared to previous occasions he experienced there as a player. According to reports, the Manchester United legend believes the connection between the players, manager and supporters is now stronger than ever, creating the kind of unity needed to win major trophies.
The former England captain reportedly praised Arteta for transforming Arsenal over the past few years. Since taking charge, Arteta has rebuilt the squad, introduced a clear tactical identity and turned Arsenal back into one of Europe’s strongest teams. Rooney believes the progress made under the Spanish coach deserves huge recognition, especially after years of inconsistency following Arsène Wenger’s departure.
Arsenal’s run to the Champions League final has earned admiration across Europe. The Gunners have eliminated several major teams during the competition and currently boast one of the best defensive records in the tournament. Their ability to remain composed in high-pressure matches has convinced many football figures that they are genuine contenders to lift the trophy.
Rooney reportedly feels Arsenal now possess the perfect balance between attacking quality and defensive organisation. Players like Bukayo Saka, Martin Ødegaard, Declan Rice and William Saliba have all played massive roles in the club’s success this season, while the emergence of younger players has brought extra energy and confidence to the squad.
The Manchester United legend is also believed to admire the mentality Arsenal have shown in difficult moments. Despite facing pressure in both the Premier League title race and Europe, Arteta’s team have continued producing strong performances when it matters most. Rooney reportedly believes that resilience is often what separates finalists from champions.
Arsenal are now preparing for a huge final against Paris Saint-Germain in Budapest later this month. PSG reached the final after overcoming Bayern Munich in a dramatic semi-final tie, setting up one of the most anticipated Champions League finals in recent years.
While PSG possess world-class attacking stars and significant experience at the highest level, Rooney reportedly believes Arsenal’s teamwork and tactical structure could give them the advantage. He is said to feel that Arsenal’s hunger to make history may become one of the biggest factors in the final.
The former striker has also reportedly backed Arsenal to maintain their strong momentum in the Premier League title race. Rooney recently suggested that Arsenal could finish the season by winning all their remaining league matches, showing his growing confidence in Arteta’s side.
Many Arsenal supporters have reacted positively to Rooney’s comments, with fans praising him for giving honest credit despite his strong Manchester United background. Social media has been filled with reactions from supporters who believe Arsenal finally look ready to conquer Europe after years of rebuilding.
Even though some pundits still favour PSG because of their experience and attacking depth, confidence around Arsenal continues growing with every performance. Their defensive organisation, tactical flexibility and team spirit have become major talking points ahead of the final.
Arteta himself has remained calm despite the increasing excitement surrounding the club. The Arsenal manager has repeatedly insisted that his players must stay fully focused and avoid distractions as they prepare for one of the biggest matches in the club’s modern history.
For Rooney, however, the signs are already there. The former Manchester United forward reportedly believes Arsenal have developed the mentality of champions and now look capable of achieving something special this season.
With the Champions League final approaching, anticipation continues building across the football world. Arsenal supporters are dreaming of European glory, and Wayne Rooney is now among the growing list of football figures who believe the Gunners could finally lift the biggest trophy in club football this season.