Wayne Rooney has named Ghana’s Antoine Semenyo among his top three Premier League players this season, praising his consistency and impact at Bournemouth while snubbing Erling Haaland.

In a recent interview with Amazon Prime Sport, Rooney highlighted Semenyo’s form as one of the standout stories of the 2025/26 campaign. The 25-year-old Ghanaian forward has scored six goals and provided three assists in 11 appearances for AFC Bournemouth, earning admiration for his physicality, directness, and work ethic.

“I think Antoine Semenyo has been great for Bournemouth, carrying on form from last season,” Rooney said.

Rooney’s top three picks also included:


  • Bryan Mbeumo, whom he surprisingly credited as a standout for Manchester United, despite Mbeumo being a Brentford player — a likely slip in attribution.

  • Viktor Gyokeres, who Rooney praised for transforming Arsenal’s attack with his hold-up play, determination, and goals.

“Arsenal have been crying out for a No.9 for a few years, and he’s come in… the goals,” Rooney added.

Rooney’s omission of Manchester City’s Erling Haaland — the league’s top scorer — sparked debate, but his picks reflect a preference for players who have exceeded expectations or transformed their teams.

Semenyo’s Rising Stock

Semenyo’s performances have reportedly attracted interest from Liverpool, with the reigning champions monitoring his progress as they look to refresh their attacking options. His blend of pace, power, and pressing fits the mold of a Jurgen Klopp-style forward.

For Ghana, Semenyo’s rise adds depth to the Black Stars’ attacking options ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he’s expected to play a key role.