Manchester United icon Wayne Rooney has tipped Millwall winger Femi Azeez for a future move to the English Premier League, praising the Super Eagles-eligible attacker after an impressive 2025/26 campaign in the Championship.
Azeez, who was born in England to a Nigerian father and a Spanish mother, rose to prominence as one of the most consistent and dangerous wide players in England’s second tier throughout the season, drawing increasing attention from top-flight clubs.
Speaking on The Overlap, Rooney singled out Azeez as one of the Championship players he believes is most ready to make the jump to Premier League football, stressing that the winger has the qualities needed to succeed at the highest level.
Rooney said he has followed Azeez closely and holds him in high regard, describing him as a player he genuinely admires for his style and decision-making. He went on to highlight that the winger’s intelligence on the pitch is one of his strongest assets, especially when it comes to understanding space and timing his movements.
According to Rooney, players aiming to thrive in the Premier League must be able to read the game effectively, find pockets of space, and consistently influence matches—qualities he believes Azeez already demonstrates.
The 24-year-old right-sided forward enjoyed a productive season, scoring 11 goals and providing eight assists, playing a key role in helping Millwall secure a place in the Championship play-offs. However, their promotion bid ended in disappointment after a 2–0 semi-final defeat to Hull City.
That fixture also featured Nigerian defender Semi Ajayi, who helped Hull progress at Millwall’s expense.
Despite missing out on Premier League promotion, Azeez’s performances earned him recognition in the Championship Team of the Season, while also increasing interest from clubs in the English top flight.
Rooney concluded his assessment by insisting that Azeez looks naturally suited to Premier League football, suggesting his style and mentality align perfectly with the demands of elite competition.
Azeez began his professional journey at Reading and has since developed into one of the Championship’s most productive attacking threats. He also has strong footballing ties through his younger brother, Miguel Azeez, who currently features for Morecambe after progressing through Arsenal’s Hale End academy.
Beyond club football, Azeez has also emerged as a potential option for the Super Eagles ahead of the 2026 Unity Cup, as Nigeria continues to monitor eligible diaspora talents for future international selection.
