Mourinho Reveals Why He Dropped Striker Wayne Rooney Against Arsenal

Manchester United manager, Jose Mourinho, has suggested Wayne Rooney did not start in their 1-1 draw with Arsenal, because he is too slow.

Mourinho was forced to shuffle his pack for the Gunners’ visit, due to injuries and suspensions. But he has now revealed Rooney missing out, was because he lacked pace.

Marcus Rashford, Anthony Martial and Juan Mata started in attack for the Red Devils.

And although Rooney endured a controversial week while on international duty, Mourinho said it had nothing to do with him starting on the bench.

“I thought we were going to have the ball,” the Portuguese coach said.

“Arsenal are a team who let the opponents play.

“I thought we would have space and the ball would arrive quite easily to the attacking players.

“I believed ones like Juan Mata, Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford were faster than Wayne — better attacking opponents one-to-one in the last line. I thought it was the best option.”