Rooney Backs Arsenal for Title Glory as Saka's Return Gives Gunners the Edge

Wayne Rooney has thrown his weight behind Arsenal to capture the Premier League crown, pinpointing the availability of Bukayo Saka as the catalyst that could tip the scales in their favour over Manchester City.

The Gunners reclaimed top spot following their 1-0 triumph at Newcastle over the weekend, capitalising on City's FA Cup semi-final commitments. Arsenal face Fulham on Saturday and will have the chance to apply fresh pressure on Pep Guardiola's outfit before City's next league outing.

Saka missed a month with injury before featuring off the bench in the Newcastle victory, and the Manchester United legend reckons his reintegration could prove transformative for Mikel Arteta's side in the run-in.

Speaking on his BBC podcast, Rooney outlined why the winger's comeback matters so much: "Bukayo Saka has been excellent for Arsenal over several years – perhaps he hasn't quite reached his peak this term – but he remains absolutely critical. Getting him back at this stage is massive and genuinely huge for them. He's clearly a leader in that dressing room."

The veteran pundit highlighted Saka's standing among the Premier League's elite performers. "When Saka's playing well, he's among the very best in this league, make no bones about it. His presence lifts everyone around him – the connection with Jurrien Timber and the midfielders is something special. These lads know exactly what they're getting when he's out there, and that reliability is invaluable."

Rooney subsequently delivered a bullish forecast, predicting Arsenal will sweep their remaining fixtures whilst City falter. "I genuinely believe Arsenal will win the title. That Newcastle game felt pivotal – had they lost, things could've unravelled, but the victory keeps them on course.

"City face trickier tests ahead. Looking at Arsenal's final four matches, they're all very much within reach. City's schedule is considerably harder – Everton and Bournemouth are the sort of games where they could come unstuck. I fancy Arsenal to win every game remaining, while City slip up once or twice. Based purely on fixtures, the edge goes to Arsenal."