Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has cautioned against prematurely dismissing defending champions Liverpool from the 2025/26 Premier League title contention, despite their challenging start to the season. Speaking on the latest episode of his BBC podcast, The Wayne Rooney Show, the former England striker highlighted Liverpool's potential to mount a comeback if they hit a strong run of form.
The comments came in an episode titled "Wayne Backs Gyökeres & Are Liverpool Still In Title Race?", released on December 21, 2025, where Rooney reacted to recent matches, including Liverpool's dramatic 2-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur. "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 get 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." He added, "I wouldn’t rule Liverpool out. But Arsenal and City are the two I think will break away. Aston Villa have done fantastically, but I think it will be one of the top two."
Rooney's assessment aligns with the current standings as of December 23, 2025. Liverpool, who clinched the title last season under Arne Slot in his debut campaign, have faced a turbulent defense of their crown. Reports indicate they sit around fifth or sixth place, approximately 10 points behind leaders Arsenal, following an inconsistent run that included dips as low as 12th earlier in the season. However, a recent unbeaten streak of six games, culminating in the win at Tottenham, has sparked renewed optimism at Anfield.
Arsenal currently lead the table, bolstered by key signings like striker Viktor Gyökeres, who has drawn praise from Rooney for his contributions beyond goals. Manchester City trail closely, with their depth and experience under Pep Guardiola making them strong favorites. Aston Villa have emerged as surprise challengers, sitting just a few points off the pace and earning acclaim for their fantastic performances, though Rooney believes they may ultimately fall short against the established heavyweights.
This season's title race has been characterized by unpredictability. Liverpool's summer reinforcements, including high-profile additions, raised expectations for a repeat success, but injuries and form dips have hindered progress. In contrast, Arsenal's defensive solidity and City's resurgence have positioned them as the frontrunners. Betting markets reflect this, with Arsenal as slight favorites ahead of City, while Liverpool remain in the chasing pack alongside Villa and others like Chelsea.
Rooney, who won five Premier League titles with Manchester United, brings a unique perspective as a fierce rival to Liverpool. His refusal to count out the Reds underscores their historical resilience and the infamous Anfield atmosphere's role in fueling comebacks. "You never rule them out," he emphasized, pointing to how momentum and fan support could propel Slot's side back into contention.
The podcast episode also covered other topics, including praise for Arsenal's Declan Rice as a potential future England captain and debates on whether Mikel Arteta's team is ruthless enough to secure the title. Rooney pushed back on criticism of Gyökeres, arguing the Swedish forward's all-around play is underrated.
As the festive fixtures approach, the title race remains wide open. With 23 matchweeks remaining and 69 points still up for grabs, shifts in form could dramatically alter the landscape. Liverpool's recent revival, including gritty wins, suggests they could indeed "have a say," as Rooney put it, especially if key players like Mohamed Salah regain peak form amid ongoing contract discussions.
