Wayne Rooney couldn’t help but notice the impact one Manchester United player had during their Premier League opener against Arsenal at Old Trafford, even as the match ended in defeat. The Red Devils came away empty-handed from their first game of the 2025-26 season, falling to a narrow loss to Mikel Arteta’s side.
Despite the result, United showed plenty of energy and intent going forward. But it was an early goal that ultimately shaped the match.
READ MORE: Rio Ferdinand singles out Mason Mount as United’s bright spark in Arsenal defeat
Arsenal took control early on, holding onto a 1-0 lead for most of the match after a quick start. Riccardo Calafiori’s goal in just the 13th minute proved decisive for Arteta’s side.
Wayne Rooney full of praise for Mason Mount after impressive showing in Man Utd’s defeat to Arsenal
Mason Mount was deployed in a false nine role for the start of the match, flanked by Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo on either side.
The 26-year-old linked up well with both Cunha and Mbeumo within Ruben Amorim’s system, giving Manchester United plenty of attacking options.
Mount was replaced by new signing Benjamin Sesko in the second half after a solid outing that drew positive reviews from supporters and pundits alike.
Rooney spoke about Mount’s potential impact this season during an appearance on The Wayne Rooney Show, describing how he could play a big part if he stays fit.
“And he hasn’t been fit since he arrived at Manchester United, really, for a period of time and he’s… I don’t think he’s missed a day’s training in pre-season. So, I think he could be a huge player for Man United this season if he can stay fit.”
Wayne Rooney shares message with Man Utd fans following 1-0 loss to Arsenal
Wayne Rooney acknowledged that both the players and Amorim would be frustrated by the outcome, but he also pointed out positives that fans could take from the display.
“Um, you know, them players will be disappointed, Amorim will be disappointed they’ve lost the game, but I think for the fans looking at it, there’s positives,” he said.
“You know, it’s not going to change in, you know, one transfer window, which Amorim has obviously had January, but one window which he has had in the summer. It’s going to take a little bit more time, but certainly it’s looking like it’s on the right track for sure.”
The Red Devils are back in action next Sunday when they travel to Craven Cottage to face Fulham. Kick-off is set for 4:30pm UK time.
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