Manchester United icon Wayne Rooney believes the club should bring back Danny Welbeck to address their struggles in front of goal.
Currently, under Ruben Amorim, United are underperforming, sitting in a disappointing 14th place in the Premier League. The team’s goal-scoring record is equally concerning, with just 33 goals so far this season. Their leading forward, Joshua Zirkzee, has only managed three goals, while Rasmus Hojlund has found the net just twice in the league.
In stark contrast, Welbeck has been in fine form, scoring an impressive eight goals this season, including a dramatic extra-time winner against Newcastle in the FA Cup. Speaking about Welbeck’s resurgence, Rooney shared his admiration for the striker, saying:
“Danny, he’s great to play alongside! And if I’m being completely honest, I’d probably still like to see him here playing for Manchester United. He scored goals throughout his career, had injuries in the early part of his career, but seems to have got over them and he’s having a fantastic season.”
Rooney is not alone in his praise. Fellow United legend Gary Neville also sees Welbeck as a great fit for the club, expressing regret over his departure. He explained:
“He was let go too quickly at United. If you think about Louis van Gaal, his style of play is very precise. Now, Danny Welbeck wasn’t precise in his game back then, so he (Van Gaal) just let him go. He didn’t fancy him at all.”
Neville further emphasized that Welbeck’s playing style aligns well with how United should approach their attack:
“But he’s actually perfect for how Manchester United should play. Threatening space in behind, playing off front players. This idea that he’s not good enough for Manchester United is absolutely rubbish. He’s good enough to be in a pool of three or four strikers at United. For instance, Liverpool have three, four, five forward players across their forward line. They’re all of differing abilities and different types.”
Welbeck, a product of Manchester United’s academy, made 142 appearances and scored 29 goals before transferring to Arsenal. He has also represented England 42 times, and his recent form has sparked discussions about a potential return to the national team.
Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler, who has been impressed with Welbeck’s leadership and performances, did not dismiss the possibility of an England comeback. Speaking to ITV, he said:
“It might be possible, but it is not my decision. The only thing I can say is I am happy to work with him, he is a great leader, great role model, and a great player.”
