Summary
A debate emerged online about whether Michael Owen or Wayne Rooney was a better soccer player at 17 years old. Both players commented on the discussion, with Owen backing himself and Rooney diplomatically acknowledging Owen's achievements. They compared their early careers, highlighting differences in their performance as young players.
Key Facts
- The debate about who was better at 17, Owen or Rooney, has been lively on social media.
- Michael Owen stated that only Wayne Rooney could compare to him in England when they were 17 or 18.
- Owen won two Premier League Golden Boots before turning 20 and scored twice for England in the 1998 World Cup.
- Wayne Rooney was the youngest Premier League scorer in 2002 and scored nine goals for England before turning 18.
- Rooney is second on England's all-time leading scorer list, while Owen is sixth.
- Owen won the Ballon d'Or at 22, while Rooney didn't, but Rooney had a longer, more successful career overall.
- Owen's career was shortened by injuries, whereas Rooney sustained his performance for longer.
- Despite his achievements, Rooney looked up to Owen and enjoyed playing alongside him.
