Danny Welbeck has overlooked Cristiano Ronaldo and instead named a former Arsenal star as the best striker he has ever played alongside. Despite playing with several modern greats, including Ronaldo, Welbeck believes Alexis Sanchez was the best partner he worked with on the pitch.
Currently enjoying a resurgence at Brighton, the 33-year-old has been in such impressive form that he is being considered for a potential England recall. His winner against Newcastle in the FA Cup last weekend further cemented his return to top-level football. Many believe this is his best form since his time at Manchester United and Arsenal.
During his 17-year career, Welbeck has shared the pitch with some of football’s biggest names. Ronaldo played a crucial role in his early days at Manchester United, influencing the young striker with his unmatched work ethic and dedication. Though he didn’t play many games with the Portuguese icon, he still trained alongside him for years, which left a lasting impression.
After Ronaldo’s departure to Real Madrid in 2009, Welbeck had the opportunity to link up with Dimitar Berbatov. He described the Bulgarian as a player with “special qualities” who didn’t receive the recognition he deserved. According to Welbeck, Berbatov’s confidence and technical ability made him a unique forward.
Following his time at United, Welbeck moved to Arsenal, where he formed a strong partnership with Olivier Giroud. He praised the Frenchman’s ability as a “top-class centre forward” who was underrated despite his impressive contributions. Welbeck enjoyed playing alongside Giroud and believed their partnership worked well.
However, the standout forward in Welbeck’s eyes was Sanchez. Arriving at Arsenal in the same summer as him, Sanchez formed a fantastic attacking connection with Welbeck, supported by the creative talents of Mesut Ozil and Santi Cazorla. Injuries unfortunately hampered Welbeck’s Arsenal career, but he remembers their partnership fondly.
Despite leaving out Manchester United’s all-time top scorer, Wayne Rooney, the England legend recently spoke highly of Welbeck. Rooney expressed his admiration for his former teammate and even wished that Welbeck was still at United to support young strikers like Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee.
Rooney, speaking after United’s FA Cup loss to Fulham, praised Welbeck’s goal-scoring ability and career longevity. He acknowledged the injuries that troubled him early on but noted that Welbeck has overcome them to enjoy a fantastic season.