Wayne Rooney, a living legend at Manchester United, believes that former teammate Danny Welbeck still has a place at Old Trafford. Welbeck, who emerged from United’s youth ranks in 2008, played alongside Rooney for six fruitful years before a controversial departure that saw him sold to Arsenal in 2014 under then-manager Louis van Gaal.
Rooney Claims Welbeck Should Still Be Leading the Line for Manchester United
After facing numerous injury challenges during his time in London, Welbeck’s career appeared in jeopardy. Following a stint at Watford, the striker has experienced a renaissance at Brighton, recently scoring a sensational winner against Newcastle United in the FA Cup, propelling the Seagulls into the quarter-finals.
This impressive form comes at a time when United’s current attacking options are struggling to deliver, raising questions about the club’s decision to part ways with Welbeck over a decade ago.
Rooney’s Reflections on Welbeck
Despite approaching his 35th birthday, Rooney expressed a wistful desire to see Welbeck back in a United jersey. “Danny’s great to play alongside,” Rooney stated in a post-match interview with BBC One following Manchester United’s FA Cup elimination at the hands of Fulham. “If I’m completely honest, I’d probably like to still see him here, playing for Manchester United.”
Rooney highlighted Welbeck’s resilience, noting that he has successfully overcome early-career injuries and is currently enjoying a standout season. This term, the forward has netted seven goals in the Premier League—outpacing United’s own Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee, who have struggled to find the net collectively.
United’s Struggles Upfront
Whereas Welbeck continues to shine at Brighton, Manchester United’s attacking woes have been painfully evident. Hojlund, in particular, has failed to score in his last 18 appearances, lacking confidence and creativity. Against Fulham, he struggled to influence the game and was eventually substituted for 17-year-old Chido Obi, who has shown promise in limited appearances.
Rooney has been particularly impressed by Obi’s performances, praising the youngster for his positional awareness and potential to make an impact. “What I’ve really liked about him is he’s put himself in some really good positions—I’ve been really impressed by him,” Rooney acknowledged.
United’s Next Challenges
As the discontent mounts among the United faithful, attention now turns to the Europa League, the club’s last chance for silverware this season. A crucial encounter awaits when United faces Real Sociedad on Thursday, followed by a Premier League fixture against Arsenal on Sunday.
In light of their current struggles, the question remains: Could Danny Welbeck have made a difference had he remained at Manchester United? The dual perspectives of nostalgia and regret loom large in the discussions of this iconic club’s forward options.