Wayne Rooney claimed Mikel Arteta "panicked" during Arsenal's 3-2 home defeat to Manchester United. After taking an early lead, Arsenal fell behind to Bryan Mbeumo and Patrick Dorgu goals. Arteta's quadruple substitution before the hour mark failed to turn the tide, with Matheus Cunha's late winner sealing the loss.

Rooney criticized the rushed changes, suggesting Arteta should have trusted his initial lineup to find a way back. The defeat raises pressure on Arsenal's title challenge, with the former United forward noting that rivals will increasingly sit deep against them, testing their star attackers' ability to unlock tight defenses.

Despite the setback, Rooney still considers Arsenal favourites for the Premier League crown. However, he warned the race will be a "real challenge," with United's win closing the gap. The result underscores Arsenal's recent struggles against determined opposition and their reliance on set-pieces for breakthroughs.