Danny Welbeck’s Resurgence: A Potential Return to Manchester United?

Under the guidance of Brighton head coach Fabian Hurzeler, Danny Welbeck has successfully recaptured the sharpness and efficiency in front of goal that once distinguished him as one of Carrington’s standout academy graduates. With six Premier League goals in just eleven appearances, Welbeck’s impressive form has ignited transfer rumors linking him back to Manchester United.

The Red Devils are currently facing challenges in their goal-scoring department, exacerbated by the recent injury to striker Benjamin Sesko. Welbeck made an impact during the recent clash against Tottenham, coming off the bench in the 58th minute and nearly creating a decisive moment in the match, only to be thwarted by Micky van de Ven’s outstanding recovery tackle. Unfortunately, his evening ended on a frustrating note as he was forced to leave the field due to a knee injury.

Ruben Amorim commented on the injury, expressing concern due to its location: “I have no idea. Because it’s the knee, we never know. I’m concerned with the injury because it’s in the knee. We need Ben to be a better team. We have to check everything, we have to check what has happened with him.”

Welbeck has now scored in seventeen consecutive Premier League seasons, and his recent performances indicate that he shows no signs of slowing down. Former Scotland international Don Hutchison believes that Manchester United would be remiss not to consider re-signing Welbeck, as his leadership and experience could prove transformative for Sesko, who has managed only two goals in eleven appearances. Hutchison emphasizes that Welbeck’s steadying influence could be crucial for the young Slovenian striker.

In a discussion with SportCasting, Hutchison stated: “I mean, it’d be a brilliant fit. He’d be a fantastic signing because Danny Welbeck’s one of those players where if he went back to Man United, it would be like when Jonny Evans returned. When Jonny Evans went back there a couple of years ago, he was happy to be a mentor inside the dressing room. He was happy to be a mentor to the players that were playing. He was happy to play his part when needed. I think Danny Welbeck going to Man United would be a really good fit in terms of he can still play, he can still score goals, he’s still really fit. But he would still have the attitude where it would be a fantastic move forward.”

Alan Shearer also weighed in on Welbeck’s revival, asserting that national team coach Thomas Tuchel would be wise to keep him in consideration for the 2026 World Cup. In remarks to BBC Sport, Shearer highlighted the lack of genuine alternatives behind Harry Kane, stating: “If you look at the forward options in Tuchel’s last squad, there aren’t many obvious stand-ins for Harry Kane. Any English striker scoring goals in the Premier League is going to be talked about.”

Despite having been overlooked by Tuchel for the November internationals, Welbeck still has several months to prove himself ahead of England’s World Cup preparations. With his form peaking at an opportune moment and his goals driving Brighton forward, the window of opportunity remains wide open for him. Welbeck is expected to return to action after the international break when Brighton hosts Brentford at the Amex on November 22.