Wayne Rooney has offered an unexpected twist to the Premier League’s early-season narrative, singling out Ghanaian winger Antoine Semenyo as one of the standout performers of the campaign so far.
In a conversation with Amazon Prime Sport, the former Manchester United captain bypassed some of the league’s usual headline-grabbers, including Manchester City striker Erling Haaland, in favour of players he believes have delivered week after week. At the top of that list was Bournemouth’s in-form attacker.
“I think Antoine Semenyo has been great for Bournemouth, carrying on form from last season,” Rooney said, praising the 25-year-old’s relentless energy and end product.
Rooney’s trio also featured Brentford’s dynamic forward Bryan Mbeumo and Arsenal’s new talisman Viktor Gyokeres.
“I also think I’d put Bryan Mbeumo in there. I think he’s been really good for Man United, even after a difficult start. I think he’s been really good. Third, I’d probably go Viktor Gyokeres. Arsenal have been crying out for a No.9 for a few years, and he’s come in, his determination, work rate, hold-up play, the goals,” Rooney added.
Semenyo has comfortably justified the hype, emerging as Bournemouth’s most electric weapon this season. With six goals and three assists in 11 matches, his form has ignited fresh transfer rumours, most notably a potential move to reigning champions Liverpool.
Rooney’s endorsement only amplifies what many fans and pundits have been whispering: Semenyo is no longer just a promising talent; he’s becoming one of the Premier League’s most consistent and dangerous forwards.
