Danny Welbeck, Brighton's experienced striker, cracked a joke after scoring the goal that eliminated Manchester United from the FA Cup, boasting about his good genetics.
On 12 Jan 2026 GMT+7, Danny Welbeck joked after scoring the goal that knocked Manchester United out of the FA Cup, saying he couldn’t reveal the secret behind his good late-career form, or else the doping officials might come after him.
The 35-year-old forward, who rose through Old Trafford’s academy before being released over a decade ago, has now scored five goals against the “Red Devils” for Brighton. His latest was a beautifully placed left-footed strike into the top corner, helping his team win 2-1 at Manchester United’s home ground.
Despite being 35, Welbeck continues to perform consistently, sparking talk of a possible recall to the England national team ahead of the World Cup in a few months. He confirmed that his good form comes from preparation, discipline, and dedication, but humorously suggested some might think otherwise.
“I can’t reveal the secret; if I say too much, the doping officials might come after me! I’m okay, I’m clean, I have good genetics, a good family, my parents gave me good genes. Everything comes from hard work. I work hard every day, take care of myself, eat well, and prepare fully for every training session. Right now, I feel great, very strong.”
Welbeck said he does not want to think too far ahead to the big tournament in the USA. “For me, I focus on the present, enjoying the moment. I know in football, everything can change in an instant, anything can happen. So, I’m just happy now, taking care of myself and controlling what I can control. I feel very good.”
Last season, Welbeck scored 11 goals, his first double-digit tally since 2018. This season, he is on track to surpass that record, having scored 8 goals so far. Only Dominic Calvert-Lewin of Leeds United has scored more goals than him among English players this season.