Wayne Rooney has unveiled his personal Premier League Team of the Year, and the selections come loaded with debate — including some choices that are sure to divide opinion among football fans.

Speaking on The Wayne Rooney Show, the former England striker worked through his final XI, wrestling with formation dilemmas before arriving at what he considers his ultimate Premier League lineup of the season.

Arsenal stars dominate

Arsenal feature heavily in Rooney's selection, with several of the club's players earning places in his side. Among the most talked-about picks are centre-backs William Saliba and Gabriel, who have been central to Arsenal's defensive strength throughout the campaign.

Rooney weighed in on whether Saliba and Gabriel already rank among the greatest defensive partnerships in Premier League history, or whether they still need more time — and more trophies — before entering that elite conversation.

Player of the year and the formation headache

Rooney also named his Player of the Year, crowning one standout performer above all others in the division. The choice prompted further debate, as big-name stars from across the league missed the cut entirely.

One player in particular gave Rooney a persistent selection headache — someone he described as constantly leaving him searching for a way to fit them into the team, regardless of the shape he chose.

That puzzle ultimately forced Rooney to rethink his formation before he settled on his final answer. The process, as he laid it out, reflected just how fine the margins are at the top of the Premier League this season.

The episode, broadcast on Radio 5 Live, runs to 28 minutes and is available as part of The Wayne Rooney Show podcast.