"Do you still remember being humbled by Park Ji-sung 17 years ago"? Wayne Rooney delivers a sharp rebuke to Arsenal's exuberant celebration over their UCL final berth: "Did you even win the title?"

*This content was translated by AI.

Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney (41) delivered a stinging remark toward Arsenal, who have reached the UEFA Champions League (UCL) final for the first time in 20 years.

The UK's "Manchester Evening News" reported on the 6th (Korean time) that "Rooney, appearing on Amazon Prime, criticized Arsenal's excessive celebration after securing their spot in the UCL final."

Arsenal secured a 1-0 victory over Atletico in the second leg of the 2025-2026 UCL semi-finals at Emirates Stadium in London, England, thanks to a decisive goal by Bukayo Saka in the 45th minute of the first half. Having drawn 1-1 in the first leg away, Arsenal advanced to the final with an aggregate score of 2-1.

With their trip to Budapest confirmed, manager Mikel Arteta and the squad poured onto the field to revel in their joy.

The media noted, "It was a goosebump-inducing scene for any football fan, but former England captain Rooney's reaction was cool."

Rooney first praised Saka and Arsenal's performance. He stated, "Saka was excellent, and Arsenal's game was efficient. Both central defenders were top-notch. Arsenal fully deserves to reach the final."

However, as broadcast cameras continued to focus on the excited Arsenal fans and players, Rooney offered a sharp comment. He said, "They haven't won yet. The celebration is too excessive. Celebrations should come after winning the title."

The media reported, "This was a lighthearted joke from Rooney, who won the UCL during his playing career and stepped onto the final stage three times. Yet, his joke failed to cool the fervor in North London, where Arsenal reached the UCL final for the first time since 2006."

Rooney also recalled the memory of Manchester United defeating Arsenal to reach the final in 2009. At that time, Manchester United, powered by goals from Park Ji-sung and Cristiano Ronaldo, crushed Arsenal, managed by Arsene Wenger, with an aggregate score of 4-1. Rooney remarked, "The atmosphere at Emirates Stadium now is completely different from back then," acknowledging Arsenal's improved strength.

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*This content was translated by AI.