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Rio Ferdinand slams Manchester United for letting Danny Welbeck leave Old Trafford Manchester United have often looked back at some of their past decisions in their illustrious history, but there have been very few that have drawn more conversation than the one where they let Danny Welbeck leave Old Trafford. The 34-year-old striker had a connection to cherish with the fans. The Englishman grew up in Manchester, evolved through the academy and donned the United shirt with utmost pride. However, with changes in personnel and shifting tactical ideas, the Red Devils sold him to Premier League club Arsenal for £16 million back in 2014. It was purely a business deal, but the decision is still attracting conversation even today. In this regard, former United defender Rio Ferdinand, who shared the dressing room with the now 34-year-old centre-forward, has reignited the old debate. Speaking on Rio Ferdinand Presents, he criticised United’s hierarchy for not stepping in when Louis van Gaal decided to let the forward leave. Ferdinand called it a “balls-up” and argued that United should have protected a player who embodied their culture. Van Gaal justified the move by comparing Welbeck to Wayne Rooney, Robin van Persie, and Radamel Falcao, saying those players set the standard. Welbeck’s loyalty and discipline, however, made the sale sting for those who valued homegrown commitment over numbers. Eleven years later, the Brighton forward still proves his worth. He scored again against his former club at Old Trafford, even though United won 4-2. Quote via Metro A missed lesson and a modern reflection
