Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink has backed Chelsea’s decision to sign Danny Welbeck, describing the experienced forward as an important addition to Xabi Alonso’s squad.
Welbeck, 35, has made an immediate impact since joining from Brighton & Hove Albion, scoring three goals in his first three appearances for the club. He underlined his influence on Wednesday by scoring twice in Chelsea’s 6-3 Carabao Cup comeback against Leeds United at Stamford Bridge.
The former England international opened his Chelsea account with a header against Luton Town before continuing his bright start with a brace against Leeds. His first goal against the Yorkshire club put Chelsea 4-2 ahead, while his late second completed the scoring.
Hasselbaink praises Chelsea signing
Hasselbaink, who scored 87 goals in 177 appearances for Chelsea, believes Welbeck’s value extends beyond his contribution in front of goal.
“He’s played for Arsenal and Manchester United, and did the business for Brighton. He knows he’s not going to be the number one at Chelsea and he will settle for that,” Hasselbaink said, as quoted by the Metro.
“But he can give so much to the other players on and off the pitch. He will be talking to the other players and helping that way but also he wants to score and he will want to be on the end of things.
“It’s a great signing for Chelsea.”
Welbeck joined Chelsea after six seasons at Brighton, where he scored 51 goals in 201 appearances and became the club’s leading Premier League goalscorer. His contract at Stamford Bridge runs until 2028.
The striker began his career at Manchester United before moving to Arsenal in 2014. He later played for Watford and Brighton, while earning 42 England caps and making 400 Premier League appearances.
Chelsea add experience to young squad
The move represented a shift from Chelsea’s recent preference for recruiting predominantly young players. The club also brought in former England midfielder Jordan Henderson during the summer as Alonso sought to add greater experience to a developing squad.
Chelsea’s official squad list for the 2026-27 season gives Welbeck the number 18 shirt, with the veteran forward expected to provide competition and cover in attack rather than lead the line every week.
His early goals have nevertheless strengthened the case for the signing, while his experience of playing for Manchester United, Arsenal and Brighton gives him authority within a squad containing several emerging prospects.
