Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal reveals why he sold Danny Welbeck to Arsenal

Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal

New Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal told the press that Danny Welbeck was sold to Arsenal for £16m only because he wasn’t a prolific goal scorer.

The 23-year-old striker scored 29 goals in his six seasons as a senior player. The club had also made a deadline day transfer to bring in Radamel Falcao.

But having sold a home-grown player, Van Gaal insisted that he will still give youngsters a chance.

Rooney and Van Persie are the standard: Van Gaal

Van Gaal said: “He played three seasons for the first team, but he doesn't have the record of Robin van Persie or Wayne Rooney. And that is the standard,”

“That is why we let him go, because of Falcao, but also to allow the youngsters to fit in.

“That is the policy. That is why I am here,” he added.

United’s focus is on youth

Van Gaal then spoke about his squad and the number of players he let go and signed.

“We let 14 players go, we have only brought six players in,” he said.

“That means there are many positions vacant, they are vacant for the youth. I have already used a lot of youngsters in the season and pre-season, so I am always willing to give young players chances - but they have to take the chances.

“The possibility is there. All the youngsters have to know that.”