PRESIDENT RUTO FIRES SHOTS AT MANCHESTER UNITED AS ARSENAL IMPRESSES WITH PREMIER LEAGUE FORM
President William Ruto has recently made remarks that could be interpreted as critical of Manchester United, contrasting with his clear support and praise for Arsenal amidst their impressive Premier League form this season.
The President, an Arsenal supporter, has expressed optimism about Arsenal’s performance and prospects, highlighting their strong position in the league and their determined pursuit in competitions like the UEFA Champions League.
Arsenal is currently making waves in the 2025-26 Premier League season, showcasing solid results and consistent form.
This contrasts with Manchester United’s struggles, which have drawn President Ruto’s pointed comments emphasizing Arsenal’s rise and the challenges facing Manchester United.
“As many of you know, I am a proud Arsenal fan. It’s true that the last two decades have not been very easy for us; we have had our own share of heartbreaks and near misses, but if you have been watching Gunners lately, you know the style, the swagger, the spirit it is all coming alive again. To our friends in EPL and across Europe, watch out Arsenal is back,” he said.
The Premier League’s ongoing fixtures in October 2025 have seen Arsenal deliver commendable performances, solidifying their reputation as serious contenders this season.
President Ruto’s backing of Arsenal was also evident when he warmly received the UEFA Champions League trophy at State House Nairobi in May 2025, reflecting the importance of football both culturally and politically.
He challenged local football bodies to build solid talent development structures to emulate successes like Arsenal’s, positioning football as a unifying and motivational force in Kenya following turbulent political protests earlier this year.
The President’s engagement with football serves as both a personal passion and a strategic move to inspire and engage Kenyan youth and sports fans, contrasting the recent negative public sentiment expressed during political protests. He also recalled football moments he had with the late Raila Odinga.
“We lost one of our big Arsenal fans the Hon Raila Odinga. We really feel we lost someone who was always in the game with us. Whenever we were not discussing difficult stuff, we used to discuss how not well we are doing, but I am happy things are looking up.”
His “shots” at Manchester United underscore his strong fan allegiance, while the admiration for Arsenal aligns with their status as Premier League leaders and performers that excite local and global supporters alike.
“We sympathize with Manchester United, but it’s the nature of football,” he concluded.
President William Ruto’s comments distinguish the contrasting fortunes of Arsenal and Manchester United this Premier League season, reflecting his support for Arsenal’s success and indirectly critiquing Manchester United’s performance.
His football advocacy ambitions are part of a broader socio-political engagement aimed at nurturing local sports talent and uniting Kenyans through the love of the game