London, United Kingdom — Wayne Rooney, iconic former Manchester United forward, has voiced strong criticism of Arsenal’s performance and fan engagement during their UEFA Champions League semi-final first-leg loss to Paris Saint-Germain at the Emirates Stadium.
Rooney’s remarks came during his post-match analysis on Prime Video, where he reflected on the Gunners’ 1-0 defeat — sealed by an early fourth-minute goal from Ousmane Dembélé — and pointed out both tactical and emotional shortcomings from Mikel Arteta’s side.
“PSG were the superior team on the night,” Rooney stated. “Tactically, they were disciplined, compact in defense, and very clever in their transitions. I honestly think they could have walked away with a bigger margin.”
The former England captain also turned his attention to the Emirates crowd, drawing a sharp contrast between Tuesday’s subdued atmosphere and the electrifying energy during Arsenal’s emphatic 3-0 quarter-final victory over Real Madrid.
“Tonight lacked intensity,” he noted. “It felt like Arsenal and their fans assumed the hardest part was already behind them. Against Madrid, the stadium roared — but this time, it was too flat. It was almost like an anti-climax.”
Rooney stressed that Arsenal needed more drive both on and off the pitch. “The players didn’t impose themselves the way Champions League semi-finals demand, and the supporters didn’t lift them like they had in previous rounds. It takes both to make moments count.”
Despite the setback, Arsenal will have a chance to respond in the return leg in Paris. Rooney concluded his remarks by emphasizing the importance of regrouping mentally and emotionally if they are to challenge PSG’s advantage.
By Taiwo Olatinwo | April 30, 2025
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