The title race is tightening and the spotlight is getting brighter. Wayne Rooney has stepped into the conversation, defending Arsenal and warning that public comments from former players could disrupt Mikel Arteta's push for the Premier League crown.
Arsenal currently sit four points clear at the top of the table with roughly a third of the season remaining. Despite dropping points in three of their last five matches, they remain in control of their destiny. The Gunners have finished second in each of the past three campaigns and have gone five seasons without a major trophy. That recent history has intensified the scrutiny around every result.
The debate was sparked when Martin Keown suggested on talkSPORT that a six point lead can feel healthier than a nine point cushion because it keeps players focused. The comment quickly gained traction across football media.
Rooney calls for calm around Arsenal
Speaking on The Overlap, Rooney pushed back firmly. The former Manchester United captain said remarks from ex players and fans are adding unnecessary pressure at a crucial stage of the season.
"What's happening is the Arsenal fans and the ex-players coming out are actually killing them. They should stay silent and let everyone else talk. I heard Martin Keown on talkSPORT saying having a six-point lead is better than nine...
Wayne Rooney
Rooney questioned the logic behind preferring a smaller lead and suggested such comments reflect nerves rather than confidence.
He praised Arteta for managing the situation effectively, noting that the manager has handled media pressure "spot on" this season. Coverage from BBC Sport has repeatedly highlighted Arteta's calm and controlled messaging during recent press conferences.
Rooney believes the noise around the club could influence the psychological balance of the title race.
He also made his prediction clear. While acknowledging Manchester City's dominance under Pep Guardiola, including five Premier League titles in the last six seasons according to official league records, Rooney said he expects Arsenal to finish the job.
"Of course Man City can still win it... but I think Arsenal will win it. I think they're too strong and powerful...
Wayne Rooney
A different feel compared to previous seasons
There is a noticeable shift around this Arsenal side.
In past run-ins, they showed vulnerability late in the campaign. This season, analysts on Sky Sports have pointed to improved defensive stability and stronger game management in tight matches. Arsenal are not relying on explosive scorelines. They are grinding out results.
Rooney highlighted another key detail. He argued that while Arsenal may not have a single global "superstar," they have built collective strength.
This Arsenal team wins through structure and cohesion rather than individual dependence. Over the last three years, that identity has grown stronger.
"What are you talking about?! That's an experienced [former] player who's getting nervous. I actually think Mikel Arteta is handling it brilliantly with the way he's speaking with the media. It's other people connected to the club who are actually having more of an effect.
Wayne Rooney
The run-in intensifies
Arsenal face Wolverhampton next with the chance to extend their lead before Manchester City return to action. Even a two or three point swing could shift the mental dynamic of the race.
City remain dangerous. Guardiola's teams are known for late season surges, a trend widely documented in coverage from BBC Sport and Sky Sports during previous title battles.
For Arsenal, the task is clear. Maintain composure. Block out the noise. Protect the lead.
This time, they are not chasing. They are leading. And the coming weeks will determine whether that difference changes everything.
"They have so much quality, Arsenal. I don't think they have that superstar but they can win games and they've shown that over the last three years. They haven't got an absolutely world-class player, a superstar that they pin everything on, but what we've seen is they know how to win games...
Wayne Rooney
Reporting based on comments from Wayne Rooney on The Overlap, statements broadcast via talkSPORT, and historical Premier League data from official league records. Context supported by analysis and reporting from BBC Sport and Sky Sports.
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