‘It’s such a privilege to play with these players’ – Welbeck says after debut goal for Chelsea
By Luke Oluoch, August 28, 2026England’s veteran striker Danny Welbeck has hinted at a special season awaiting the London club after getting off the mark at his new club with a debut goal.
Welbeck opened the scoring in the second half to set Xabi Alonso through to a comfortable 2-0 win at Stamford Bridge.
The striker signed for Chelsea on August 1 from Brighton and Hove Albion. He started two games during the club’s pre-season tour in Asia and America before injury ruled him out of the season-opening win against Fulham on Monday, August 24, 2026.
New experience
Speaking to Chelsea FC after the Thursday victory and a dream debut to cap it off, the 35-year-old shared his feelings on his new experience with the Blues.
“It’s such a privilege to play with some of these players and it’s a joy when you are out there on the pitch,” he said.
“For me, playing as a nine today, it was more about staying on the last line. When the ball came into me, I was always ready to link up with the likes of Morgan and Cole. I really enjoyed that, and I’m looking forward to it happening a lot more.”
He also explained why he feels the club is destined for a memorable season despite it being early days for the club, sentiments also shared by his teammate Cole Palmer.
“We can build something special here. With the quality of players we have here, it’s only right that we believe we can achieve something special. We will keep pushing and working every single day, and we’ll be trying to get those results at the weekends.”
The former Arsenal and Manchester United striker also reflected on the goal that got his Chelsea stint underway as he looks forward to featuring for his third club in the English big six teams.
“It is really nice to get a goal on your debut and to get off the mark right from the start. So I am really pleased with that.
“More importantly, I am pleased to get through to the next round, and we have got to stand strong in every single competition this season,” he said.