Former Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney has voiced his disapproval of Arsenal’s exuberant celebrations following their Champions League semi-final victory over Atletico Madrid. The Gunners secured a 2-1 aggregate win, advancing to the final with a goal from Bukayo Saka just before halftime in the second leg at the Emirates Stadium.
The first leg had ended in a 1-1 draw in Spain, setting the stage for a tense return match. After the final whistle, Arsenal players and staff celebrated passionately in front of their home fans for an extended period, a display that drew criticism from some quarters.
Rooney, who won the Champions League with Manchester United in 2008, commented on the celebrations during a broadcast on Prime Video. “They haven’t won it yet,” he said. “I think the celebrations are a bit too much. Celebrate when you win… but no, they have earned it.”
The Arsenal squad’s emotional reaction was seen by some as premature, especially with the final still to come. Despite his criticism, Rooney acknowledged that the team had merited their place in the final.