Welbeck Shines in FA Cup Victory Over Manchester United
A day meant to celebrate a former Manchester United midfielder's return to Old Trafford turned into a moment of triumph for an ex-striker.
Interim United manager Darren Fletcher faced disappointment as his second game in charge ended in defeat, following a Premier League draw against Burnley. Danny Welbeck, a former United player, once again proved to be a thorn in his old club's side, leading Brighton to a victory that secured a place in the FA Cup fourth round.
The 35-year-old Welbeck, who spent 13 years at Manchester United before moving to Arsenal in 2014, expressed his respect for Fletcher, who departed the club in 2015. "He helped me massively as a young player at Man Utd," Welbeck remarked. "It was nice to see him on the sidelines. I have the utmost respect for Darren Fletcher."
A Fond Farewell
This match may mark Fletcher's final appearance as United's interim manager. He is not the first manager to be affected by Welbeck's prowess and likely won't be the last.
Having grown up in Longsight, just a short distance from Old Trafford, Welbeck came through the Manchester United academy and was part of the squad that won the Premier League title under Sir Alex Ferguson in 2013. However, he struggled for playing time under Louis van Gaal, particularly after the arrival of Radamel Falcao.
Since leaving United, Welbeck has consistently reminded club officials of his capabilities, scoring eight goals against his former team—more than against any other club throughout his 17-year professional career. When he exited the pitch on Sunday, he received applause from fans on both sides of the stadium.
Phil Jones, another former teammate of Welbeck and Fletcher, shared his thoughts with BBC Sport: "I remember Welbz when he first joined United, and he was a terrific talent then. Should he have left Old Trafford? A lot of fans were sad to see him go. I think they’d take him back in a heartbeat now."
A Role Model at 35
Welbeck also played a crucial role in Brighton's opening goal, making a driving run and delivering a chipped cross that led to Brajan Gruda's score after Georginio Rutter's shot was blocked. In the 64th minute, he showcased his skill and composure by netting a goal that highlighted the efficiency often missing at United since his departure.
"I knew where the defenders were and thought, 'I have to get a touch, and the second touch has to be a shot on goal,'" he explained to TNT Sports. "It has to be a perfect touch, a little bit away from the defender. It was nice to get that clean connection."
Since joining Brighton in 2020, Welbeck has taken on an increasingly prominent role. Seagulls manager Fabian Hurzeler praised him, stating, "To describe him best is to say that he is a role model on and off the pitch, a great connector. He is a great goalscorer, always in the right moment. Good goalscorers never give up; they are always ready."
Jones echoed this sentiment, noting, "Today he was incredible. The way he carries himself and dedicates himself to football sets a great example for any young player watching."
Welbeck, who turned 35 in November, has scored nine goals this season. His total of 11 goals in the 2024-25 campaign is the highest since his breakout year at Old Trafford in 2012.
"I can’t give away the secret," he said when asked about his longevity. "I have good genetics. My parents blessed me with good genes. I work hard every single day, eat well, and prepare for every training session. I’ve had experience with injuries, but thankfully, I haven’t faced many in recent years. Long may that continue."
His decisive goal against Manchester United has reignited discussions regarding his potential inclusion in this summer's England squad for the World Cup. However, Welbeck remained focused on the present, stating, "I’m just focusing on the here and now. Football can change in an instant."
Jones and former United striker Dion Dublin, however, did not dismiss the idea. "We keep talking about number nines, but if anyone can contribute alongside Harry Kane this summer, it could be him. He’s still strong, quick, and scoring goals regularly," Jones remarked. Dublin added, "The only way to secure a spot as a center-forward is by scoring goals when the squad is selected. He’s doing everything right and deserves consideration."