Wayne Rooney has voiced sharp criticism of Manchester City‘s celebratory behaviour after their victory over Arsenal on Sunday, warning that the reaction from Pep Guardiola’s players may yet prove ill-timed in a title race that remains far from settled.
City secured a hard-fought 2-1 win over Arsenal, a result that has significantly shifted the momentum in their favour heading into the final weeks of the Premier League season. Despite the defeat, Arsenal remain top of the table, and a supercomputer model still projects the Gunners with a 73% probability of claiming the title.
Rooney, a former Manchester United captain and one of English football’s most decorated players, described the scenes as “premature” and warned that “it might come back to bite them.” His comments reflect a wider sense among pundits that the title race is far from over, with both clubs still having crucial fixtures to navigate.
The post-match fallout extended beyond Rooney’s assessment. Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus was reportedly seen confronting a Manchester City supporter who allegedly referred to him as “Judas” — a reference to his departure from City to Arsenal in 2022. The incident underlined the charged atmosphere surrounding what has become one of the most fiercely contested title races in recent Premier League history.
In terms of the standings, Manchester City now sit three points behind Arsenal, though crucially, Guardiola’s side hold a game in hand — a fixture against Burnley. Should City win that match, they would draw level on points with Arsenal, at which point goal difference would determine which club holds top spot.
Arsenal’s recent form has drawn scrutiny, with questions being raised about the club’s ability to maintain composure under mounting pressure. Former Arsenal captain Patrick Vieira was also reported to be unhappy with manager Mikel Arteta‘s decision to substitute Crystal Palace loanee Eberechi Eze during the defeat — a tactical call that attracted its own share of debate.
Arteta’s men will next host Newcastle United at the Emirates Stadium. Newcastle have struggled for consistency this season, giving Arsenal the opportunity to reassert their position at the summit before City’s game in hand is played.
With just a handful of matches remaining across the campaign, the 2025-26 Premier League title race is shaping up to be one decided on fine margins — whether in points, goals, or, as Rooney suggests, temperament.
