As Manchester United fans exited Old Trafford yesterday, their club found itself in an uncomfortably familiar position, having been eliminated from both domestic cups at the first hurdle. This marked a historic low, not seen since the 1981-82 season, leaving many to lament the significant role played by one of their former strikers in their recent downfall.

Danny Welbeck’s decisive strike in Brighton’s 2-1 FA Cup third-round victory on Sunday was particularly painful for the Old Trafford faithful. This goal was Welbeck’s eighth career goal in all competitions against Manchester United, a statistic that now represents his joint-best record against any opposition throughout his career. This recurring ability to impact games against his former club highlights a unique aspect of football rivalries.

The sentiment surrounding Welbeck’s performance was palpable, even prompting his former teammate Phil Jones to comment that Manchester United fans would “take him back in a heartbeat.” Such remarks underscore the complex emotions involved when players return to haunt their previous teams, evoking a mix of admiration for their skill and regret for their departure.

This scenario naturally leads to a broader discussion, as highlighted by BBC Sport, concerning Premier League players who have consistently posed a significant threat to their former employers. To qualify for this distinctive category, players must meet specific criteria: they must have played for the club and subsequently scored against them since the 1992-93 season, with the qualification strictly applying to league games only. Welbeck’s consistent goal-scoring record against Manchester United, even if his most recent strike was in the FA Cup, firmly places him within the spirit of this select group, demonstrating the lasting impact a former player can have on their old stomping ground.