Danny Welbeck, the 34-year-old striker, has finally reached a significant milestone in his career, scoring double figures in Premier League goals for the first time ever in a single season. His penalty in Brighton’s 2-0 win at Wolves on Saturday marked the culmination of a 17-year wait for the former Manchester United, Arsenal, and Watford forward.
With his latest goal, Welbeck helped keep Brighton & Hove Albion in the race for European football with just two games remaining in the season. The Seagulls remain firmly in the hunt for a place in European competition next season, thanks in part to Welbeck’s vital contributions.
“It is a good milestone to have, and I feel like it could have been more,” said Welbeck, reflecting on his achievement. “I’m looking forward to improving. We have two more games left, and hopefully I’ll get some more [goals].”
Having made 29 Premier League appearances in each of the last three seasons—his first run of sustained fitness—Welbeck has now reached 10 goals in a single campaign. His previous best was 12 goals for Manchester United during the 2011-12 season, a mark he is now targeting to surpass.
Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler was quick to praise the veteran striker, saying, “First of all, I need to thank the medical department that Danny is on the pitch. Danny has never had so many minutes for us as he has had this season. He’s a special character, an unbelievable role model for everyone, especially the younger players.”
Hurzeler also highlighted the importance of Welbeck’s goals, noting that each of his past nine Premier League goals have been either the opener or a goal that leveled the score—critical moments that have propelled Brighton’s push for a European spot.
Looking ahead, Brighton’s next two matches will be crucial, with games against Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur on the horizon. Hurzeler, while hopeful, is mindful of Welbeck’s advancing age. “I hope [he can carry on], but I can’t see into the future. He has to continue how he behaves at the moment. He is very professional, and I am convinced he can carry on for a long time.”
In addition to Welbeck’s milestone, the match also saw an emotional first for teammate Brajan Gruda. The 20-year-old German midfielder, who arrived from Mainz for £25m last summer, scored his first goal for Brighton after coming on as a substitute in the 59th minute. The goal was a long-awaited breakthrough for Gruda, who had endured a difficult season. “It was a hard season for me, and I’m really happy to score my first goal,” he said after the match.
Hurzeler congratulated the young player, saying, “He’s sacrificed a lot and suffered a lot, but today he made himself a big presence. We are all happy for him.”
Brighton’s next two games, against Liverpool and Tottenham, will determine whether they can continue their fight for European qualification, and Welbeck’s leadership will be key to their success.
