A fierce row has erupted over Aston Villa's Premier League credentials after Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney dismissed their title hopes, prompting a stinging rebuke from former Villa striker Gabby Agbonlahor.
The Spark: Rooney's Match of the Day Comments
The controversy began on the BBC's Match of the Day programme on December 21, 2025. When asked by host Dion Dublin if Unai Emery's in-form side were genuine title contenders, Rooney was unequivocal. "No. I don't, I don't think they are," stated the former England captain.
Rooney elaborated, insisting his view was not meant as disrespect, but based on a comparison with the established elite. "They're just not as good as Arsenal or Man City," he argued. "They're doing excellent, they're doing great, but to win the title, it takes a lot and I just don't think they're going to do it."
Agbonlahor's Forceful Rebuttal on talkSPORT
Reacting live on talkSPORT, Villa icon Gabby Agbonlahor took direct aim at Rooney's logic, branding his argument "invalid." Agbonlahor pointed to Villa's recent results against the very teams Rooney rates above them.
"Everyone's thinking to themselves, Villa comfortably beat Manchester City, comfortably," Agbonlahor said. "Tight game with Arsenal, they win in the last minute. They've already beat the two teams you're talking about, Mr Rooney."
He underscored the remarkable statistics underpinning Villa's campaign: "They've won 11 of the last 12, Villa! 10 in a row all comps, seven in a row in the Premier League." Villa's latest triumph, a 2-1 victory over Manchester United on December 22 where Morgan Rogers scored both goals, cemented their place third in the table, just one point behind Manchester City and three behind leaders Arsenal.
Statues and Silverware: Belief at Villa Park
Beyond the immediate debate, Agbonlahor expressed immense faith in the project under manager Unai Emery, who took over with the club in the relegation zone under Steven Gerrard. His praise for the Spaniard was effusive.
"He's been outstanding since he come in," Agbonlahor said. "What he's done has been... I think even statue-worth. I know it's coming, I know this season Aston Villa will win a trophy."
This public clash of opinions highlights the growing conversation around Villa's unexpected surge. While pundits like Rooney remain sceptical about their staying power over a full season, those close to the club point to tangible results against the best as proof their challenge is real.
