Jadon Sancho’s turbulent time at Manchester United came to an end with a last-minute Deadline Day loan move this past summer. The 24-year-old had been eager to leave after falling out of favor with former United manager Erik ten Hag, with whom he had a strained relationship.
Chelsea secured Sancho on an initial loan, which is highly likely to become a permanent transfer for €25 million to €30 million next summer. The deal will automatically convert if Chelsea finishes higher than 15th in the Premier League, a scenario that seems likely given the strong start both Sancho and the team have made this season.
However, former Portugal star José Fonte believes Sancho’s chapter at Manchester United may not be fully closed. Fonte predicts that Sancho could thrive under United’s new manager, Ruben Amorim, if he returns to Old Trafford.
Fonte’s Perspective
“Jadon Sancho will get a chance to impress Ruben Amorim in the summer because it’s a fresh start and a new opportunity for everyone,” Fonte told JeffBet. “Something might click between him and Amorim because he knows exactly what he wants from his players in every area of the pitch. He also likes to give the No. 10s freedom to be creative, and that’s exactly what Sancho needs. It could be a great opportunity for him.”
Since joining Chelsea, Sancho has made an immediate impact, assisting a goal in his debut during a 1-0 win over Bournemouth. He has continued to perform well, tallying three assists in five matches.
Sancho’s Struggles at Manchester United
Sancho arrived at Manchester United from Borussia Dortmund in the summer of 2021 for a hefty €85 million fee. Unfortunately, his time at Old Trafford fell short of expectations. He scored just 12 goals in 82 appearances and often found himself on the bench.
His situation worsened last season when he was frozen out of the squad following public criticism from Ten Hag about his training performances. In response, Sancho took to social media to refute the manager’s claims, leading to further disciplinary measures. He was barred from first-team training, banned from using team facilities, and even removed from the squad’s WhatsApp group by Ten Hag.
Sancho was eventually transfer-listed and sent on loan to Borussia Dortmund in January, where he regained some form, helping the team reach the Champions League final, though they lost to Real Madrid.
This past summer, he joined Chelsea, and his promising start suggests a revival in his career. With a potential return to Manchester United under Amorim’s management, Sancho could yet have another chance to make his mark at Old Trafford.