THE football world has been buzzing after former England striker Michael Owen reignited debate by claiming he was superior to Wayne Rooney as a 17-year-old.
But Rooney has responded in typical diplomatic fashion, steering clear of controversy while showing admiration for his former teammate.
The discussion began during Owen’s appearance on Rio Ferdinand’s podcast, where he declared that only Rooney could be compared to him in terms of talent at that age but insisted he had the edge.
“Who was better aged 17, Michael Owen or Wayne Rooney?” asked BBC Match of the Day’s X account on Friday, setting social media alight. Owen himself jumped into the debate, backing his own claim.
Rooney, now host of The Wayne Rooney Show on BBC Sounds, addressed the issue with calm reflection rather than rivalry.
“Michael and I brought different strengths to the pitch,” he explained. “As a kid, I’d even play on the streets pretending to be Michael Owen, even though he was a Liverpool lad.”
On Owen’s assertion, Rooney was measured: “I think his comments are fair. Of course, he’s going to back himself. I’d back myself too. But I’d never judge myself against Michael Owen because he’s someone I actually looked up to and had the pleasure of playing alongside for England and Manchester United.”
Both men remain icons of English football for their teenage exploits.
Owen, who announced himself to the world with a sensational goal at the 1998 World Cup aged just 18, was hailed as England’s next big thing.
Rooney, six years younger, exploded onto the scene with Everton in 2002 before becoming England’s youngest-ever goalscorer at Euro 2004.
While fans continue to argue who was the greater teenage talent, Rooney’s diplomatic stance has kept the focus on their shared achievements rather than rivalry.
The debate has since gone viral, with football fans split between the two legends. Some point to Owen’s blistering pace and early World Cup heroics, while others hail Rooney’s all-round ability, power, and longevity at the highest level.
Regardless of who was “better at 17,” both players left indelible marks on English football – and Rooney’s response ensured the conversation remained respectful rather than divisive.
