Wayne Rooney has defended Arsenal’s playing style amid growing criticism of the Premier League leaders, insisting Mikel Arteta’s side should continue doing whatever is necessary to win matches.
The Gunners remain firmly on course for a historic season. After their 2-1 FA Cup victory over Mansfield Town secured a place in the quarter-finals, Arsenal are also seven points clear at the top of the Premier League table ahead of Manchester City, who still have a game in hand.
Despite their success, Arteta’s tactical approach has drawn criticism from several pundits in recent weeks.
Wayne Rooney backs Arsenal approach under Mikel Arteta
Former Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney believes the criticism directed at Arsenal has been exaggerated and unfair.
Speaking on the BBC’s Wayne Rooney Show, he pointed out that winning trophies should remain the primary focus for any team competing at the highest level.
“I don’t think they’ve been as bad as what people are saying, I really don’t. If teams can’t deal with it, do it more. That’s what I’d be doing if I was Arteta.” — Wayne Rooney
Rooney emphasised that when a team is chasing the league title, style of play becomes secondary to results.
“Their focus is just trying to win games in any way possible. When you’re going for the title, you don’t have to worry about how people think about how you play, as long as you win.” — Wayne Rooney
Criticism surrounding Arsenal tactics
Arsenal’s style has been debated heavily during the title run-in. Some critics have argued that the team relies heavily on physical set-pieces and game management tactics.
Former West Ham and Newcastle manager Alan Pardew recently suggested that if Arsenal win the Premier League using such an approach, the achievement should come with an “asterisk.”
Brighton manager Fabian Hürzeler also questioned Arsenal’s methods following his side’s 1-0 defeat to the Gunners, suggesting they were “making their own rules.”
Rooney: Arsenal should keep exploiting strengths
Rooney dismissed those concerns, arguing that if opponents cannot handle Arsenal’s strengths, the Gunners should continue to exploit them.
“If the officials aren’t stopping it and teams are finding it difficult to deal with, why would Arsenal change anything?” — Wayne Rooney
He also praised the physical side of the game, particularly in situations involving set-pieces, suggesting it adds an important dimension to modern football.
Arsenal still chasing multiple trophies
Arsenal’s strong position in several competitions has increased the scrutiny around their performances.
| Arsenal 2025/26 Season | Status |
|---|---|
| Premier League | 1st place |
| FA Cup | Quarter-finals |
| Carabao Cup | Finalists |
| Champions League | Round of 16 |
source: competition standings – 9 March 2026
With Arsenal competing on several fronts, Arteta’s priority will likely remain maintaining results rather than responding to external criticism.
Key Insights
- Wayne Rooney believes criticism of Arsenal’s playing style is exaggerated.
- The Gunners lead the Premier League by seven points.
- Arsenal remain in contention across multiple competitions this season.
- Critics have questioned their physical approach and set-piece tactics.
- Rooney insists Arteta should continue using strategies that deliver wins.
What’s Next
Arsenal now face a crucial period in the season as they continue competing in the Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League.
Maintaining consistency during this run could determine whether Arteta’s side can convert their strong position into silverware.
If the results continue, the debate around Arsenal’s style may ultimately become irrelevant.
Will Arsenal’s pragmatic approach be enough to secure the Premier League title?
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