Exclusive: Rooney Labels Man Utd Star the Next Paul Scholes, Backs Him for Ballon d’Or Top 5
Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has sent shockwaves through the footballing world with a glowing endorsement of a current Old Trafford star, claiming the player’s “out of this world” football IQ reminds him of none other than Paul Scholes.
In a recent exclusive sit-down, United’s all-time leading goalscorer didn’t hold back, suggesting that this mystery maestro is currently playing at a level that warrants a top-five finish in this season’s Ballon d’Or rankings.
“His Football IQ is Out of This World”
Rooney, who shared the pitch with some of the greatest midfielders in history, noted that watching this particular player is the highlight of his week.
> “He reminds me of Paul Scholes anytime he touches the ball,” Rooney revealed. “It’s the way he dictates the tempo. You can’t teach that kind of vision. His football IQ is just out of this world, and honestly, he makes me happy whenever he’s on the ball.”
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While Rooney has famously weighed in on the “Gerrard vs. Scholes vs. Lampard” debate in the past—often citing Scholes as the ultimate master of dictating a game—he believes United have finally found a successor who mirrors that rare technical brilliance.
The Ballon d’Or Case
The 2025/26 season has seen a resurgence at Old Trafford under the interim guidance of Michael Carrick, and Rooney believes the team’s success is anchored by this individual’s performances.
* Elite Distribution: Averaging a pass completion rate in the high 90s.
* Tactical Flexibility: Effortlessly transitioning from a deep-lying playmaker to a progressive threat.
* Consistency: Delivering “Man of the Match” performances in high-stakes European ties.
“If you look at the impact he’s had on this team, he really deserves to be in the top five Ballon d’Or rating this season,” Rooney added. “He isn’t just playing well; he’s changing how United play football.”
A New Era at Old Trafford?
With Rooney recently vocal about his support for Michael Carrick to take the permanent managerial reins, his praise for the current squad suggests a deep belief in the club’s current trajectory. For fans, the comparison to Scholes is the ultimate compliment, sparking hope that the “Glory Days” of midfield dominance are returning to the Theatre of Dreams.
Whether this star can secure that elusive Ballon d’Or podium remains to be seen, but with the backing of “Wazza,” the spotlight is firmly fixed on Manchester’s latest sensation.
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