Man Utd legend Wayne Rooney names Man City derby rival he felt was most underrated

Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney feels a certain former Manchester City player was one of the most underrated players of his time. The Old Trafford legend, still the top scorer in Manchester derby history, recalled the brutal 6-1 hammering by Manchester City in 2011 – and singled out one striker who, in his eyes, never got the respect he deserved.

Dzeko finally gets his flowers

Rooney didn’t heap praise on Sergio Aguero, David Silva or Yaya Toure this time. Instead, he pointed directly at Edin Dzeko, the Bosnian forward who often operated in the shadows but consistently delivered in the big moments.

AdvertisementGetty Images SportDzeko: The forgotten assassin of the Etihad

The 6-1 thrashing at Old Trafford is remembered for Mario Balotelli’s iconic “Why Always Me?” celebration. But Rooney reminded fans that Dzeko also played a pivotal role in City’s dominance during that period.

“No, City then had a good team. Dzeko doesn’t get the credit he deserves. Silva and Balotelli were there as well. They had a good team, Toure, Kompany, Hart in goal,” Rooney said.

Six Manchester derby appearances brought him four goals and an assist, a ruthless record that made him a constant thorn in United’s side.

2012 heroics cemented Dzeko's legacy

Dzeko’s place in City folklore was carved not just by derby goals but by his role in one of the most dramatic Premier League finales ever. Against QPR in 2012, the Bosnian equalised deep into stoppage time before Aguero’s legendary winner sealed the title. That strike was as important as any in City’s history, yet it’s often forgotten in the shadow of Aguero’s glory.

AFPHaaland challenged to follow in Dzeko’s footsteps

Fast forward to today, and City have another powerhouse leading the line: Erling Haaland. As Pep Guardiola prepares his side for another fierce showdown with United at the Etihad, he’ll be hoping his Norwegian talisman can emulate Dzeko’s knack for hurting their neighbours.