England football legend Wayne Rooney has criticised Manchester United for failing to re-sign their former academy graduate, Danny Welbeck, describing it as a missed opportunity for the club.
Welbeck, who rose through United’s youth ranks, was sold by then-manager Louis van Gaal in 2014. Despite making 142 appearances for the Red Devils, the Dutch coach opted to part ways with the striker, reportedly due to concerns about his goalscoring record, favouring Radamel Falcao instead.
Following his £16 million transfer to Arsenal, Welbeck struggled to rediscover his best form and later moved to Brighton & Hove Albion, where he has since enjoyed a career resurgence. The 33-year-old reached double figures in Premier League goals last season and has already found the net six times this term.
Rooney, who shared the pitch with Welbeck during his United and England days, said the forward deserves greater recognition for his consistency and work ethic — adding that current England manager Thomas Tuchel should consider recalling him to the national team.
“I’m stoked, he’s been on fire. I absolutely love Daniel, I love him,” Rooney told newsmen. “He’s been such a good player in the Premier League. Man United should have brought him back because he scores goals and he works hard.
“I think over the last couple of years I would have really have liked to have him back. But I would have wanted him back over the last few years.”
He continued, “He was brilliant. Honestly he’s such a lovely person. He pressed really high and was aggressive and quick with it. Really clever, good feet and he scored goals. I can’t speak highly enough of him. …Thomas Tuchel will definitely have to look at him.”
Welbeck last featured for England in 2018, but his recent form has reignited discussions about a potential return to international duty.
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