Rooney: In a Title Race, Even One Point Can Be Priceless

The Premier League’s match of the week ended in a dramatic 1-1 draw between Arsenal and Manchester City at the Emirates. Erling Haaland struck first on the counter, but Gabriel Martinelli rescued the Gunners with a late equalizer.

Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney told BBC Sport that in the heat of a title race, even a single point can carry huge weight.

Rooney said:
“For Arteta, the pressure to deliver silverware this season is enormous. It’s never easy, especially against a team like City, who have world-class players. Just like facing Liverpool, breaking down such defenses and creating real chances is extremely difficult. Credit to Arsenal—they fought to the end and were rewarded with the equalizer.”

A BBC commentator added:
“The season is long, and City don’t look completely unstoppable right now. Arsenal showed resilience, but only really came alive late in the match. City were far from their best, especially after playing in the Club World Cup. If Arteta had gone with a more attacking lineup, they might have won this game.”

Rooney concluded:
“I still think a draw is a good result. City may not have been at their peak, but their squad quality is undeniable. Sir Alex Ferguson used to tell us that in big games, a draw can be as valuable as a win.

I remember once we drew away at Fulham, and the dressing room was full of frustration. Then Sir Alex came in and told us: ‘That point will help us win the league.’ And he was right. If Arsenal eventually win the Premier League by just one point, they’ll look back at this draw as pure gold.”