Danny Welbeck gives his first interview on joining Chelsea from Brighton & Hove Albion, signing a two year deal.
The 35 year old scored 14 goals in 40 appearances for the Seagulls last season, and throughout his six years at the club, he has scored 51 times in 201 appearances..
Welbeck joined Xabi Alonso’s squad for their pre-season tour, with the next game against Juventus on Wednesday 5 August (kick-off 7.30pm HKT) – Kai Tak Stadium, Hong Kong.
Welbeck, when asked what comes to his mind when thinking of Chelsea: ‘Trophies and winning.
‘That philosophy resonates with me because that’s something I strive to do every single day,’ Welbeck continues.
‘I want to win, to improve, to get better, and it’s a club with some great history. Chelsea have won a lot of trophies, and that’s something that I really want to strive towards as well.
‘I grew up with winners all around me; there were great characters around me.
‘I watched my team-mates when I was younger to see how they prepared for training, how they rested, how they relaxed, what they ate and more. Everything comes into it. It’s a small compound effect, and it set the example for me, so I’ve always had high standards.
‘I really do believe that if you keep doing the small things right, over time it becomes something massive, and I’m not going to change in any way. I want to maintain those high standards.
Welbeck first interview for #chelsea pic.twitter.com/48ANeHFGIi
— Blue Alsace (@Austinluxury1) August 1, 2026
‘I’m coming to the later stage of my career, but I’m as hungry as ever and as passionate as ever, ready to put everything into this next chapter.
‘Obviously, with age comes experience, and I’ve got invaluable experience. I’ve been around the Premier League for a long, long time and I’ve been at some big clubs. With everything that I’ve experienced in my time as a Premier League footballer, I’ve learned so much.
‘It’s given me such a good outlook about what I can do to help, not just myself, but others around me as well. I’ve seen a lot, so I’ve always got a lot of advice for some of the younger players who want to take it on board, and it’s amazing to be in this position.
‘I think every new chapter brings different challenges and obviously coming to Chelsea Football Club, we’ve got some incredible talent here.
‘It’s such a promising squad; there’s so much talent at this football club. I can’t wait to get involved.
‘I’m buzzing to be here. It’s an incredible opportunity. I’m really grateful, thankful, and privileged to be at this big club. I’m really buzzing for this next chapter in my career now.’
Thank you for everything, Danny. 💫
The striker has joined Chelsea for undisclosed terms, bringing an end to a successful and memorable six-year spell with the club. 🤝
— Brighton & Hove Albion (@OfficialBHAFC) August 1, 2026
Brighton confirm “Danny Welbeck has joined Chelsea for undisclosed terms, bringing an end to a successful and memorable six-year spell with the club.
“The former Manchester United, Arsenal and England striker arrived after leaving Watford in October 2020, quickly becoming an influential figure at the club, on and off the pitch, and making a significant contribution during one of the most successful periods in our history.”
Head coach Fabian Hurzeler said, “It’s always sad to see a player and a person of Danny’s stature leave, and we are all sorry to see him go.
“Danny has been a pleasure to work with from the moment I arrived at the club. His professionalism, attitude and commitment set the standard here every day, and he has been a fantastic support to me personally.
“As well as the quality he brought on the pitch, he was an important leader within the squad and a role model for our younger players. We are grateful for everything he has done for the club and wish him all the very best for the future.”
He has also issued a farewell message to Brighton…
Chairman Tony Bloom added, “Danny has made an incredible contribution to Brighton & Hove Albion during his six years with the club.
“His performances, goals and experience played a key role in some of the most important moments in our recent history, while his character and leadership made him a hugely respected figure within the club.
“On behalf of everyone at the club, I would like to thank Danny for his outstanding service and wish him every success in the next chapter of his career.”
During his time with Albion between 2020 and 2026 Danny made 201 appearances in all competitions, scoring 51 goals and contributing 18 assists, becoming Brighton’s leading top-flight goalscorer in the process.
He played a key role in helping the club achieve its highest Premier League finish of sixth in 2023, securing European qualification for the first time ever. Last season his goals and performances were critical in securing a Conference League place for this season.
