- Jadon Sancho has participated in Manchester United’s last four pre-season matches this summer.
- He has taken on the role of central striker due to injuries and ongoing international obligations.
- The 24-year-old has reconciled with his manager after last year’s dispute.
Jadon Sancho is relishing his return to Manchester United after being re-absorbed into the first-team setup following his absence last season.
The 24-year-old has been heavily involved in pre-season activities for the Red Devils, and with injuries affecting the attacking lineup, he may be a starter in Erik ten Hag’s Premier League opener against Fulham on August 16.
This represents a significant turnaround for the winger, who faced exclusion from the squad last year after a clash with the Dutch coach.
His reluctance to apologize for an inappropriate post on social media led to a loan move back to former club Borussia Dortmund for the latter half of the season, where he reached the Champions League final.
However, now despite ongoing speculation regarding a potential summer exit, Sancho has expressed contentment about being “back with the lads” ahead of the upcoming season.
Jadon Sancho started up front for the second game in a row as Man United suffered a 3-0 defeat by Liverpool on Sunday
The 24-year-old claimed that it has been good to be reunited with his team-mates again this summer
Sancho was sent out on loan for the second half of last season following his falling out with Erik ten Hag
When asked about his return to playing, he responded to MUTV: ‘Definitely, 100 per cent. Yes, absolutely.’
‘It’s been great, enjoying the sunshine, reuniting with the lads, which has been lovely. I appreciate the facilities here in America.’
‘When I have time off, I often come to America. This place is where I usually train before pre-season, so it feels nice to be back. I wouldn’t call it home, but the facilities are great.’
Sancho has two years remaining on his £250,000-a-week contract, which he signed when he joined United from Dortmund for £73 million in 2021. Although Borussia Dortmund is keen on re-signing him, they would find it challenging to match his wages alongside the £40 million transfer fee United is asking for. Juventus is also interested, and a potential move to Paris Saint-Germain is still on the table.
“We had a constructive conversation,” Ten Hag said. “Everyone can make a mistake. If a player learns from it, then we can close that chapter and move forward. This club requires talented players, and it’s clear that Jadon possesses exceptional skills. I hope the breakthrough happens soon, and that he will help contribute to our success.”
Reports indicate that Sancho has been reflecting on the previous fallout, hinting that although he may not have fully apologized to Ten Hag, he has softened enough for the two to move forward productively.
Sources describe Sancho as having seamlessly reintegrated back into the squad after his months at Dortmund. He is characterized as a vibrant personality with a wonderful sense of humor, believed to positively impact those around him. Everyone is keen to maintain this atmosphere, regardless of whether he remains long-term or not.
The United boss has a few selection challenges ahead of the Community Shield and Premier League opener
Sancho hasn’t scored for Man United since the last day of the 2022-2023 season, but Ten Hag may have no choice but to start him up front against Fulham with Rasmus Hojlund likely out until September and Joshua Zirkzee still not fully fit for training.
The team had a tough conclusion to their US tour, suffering a significant 3-0 defeat to rivals Liverpool at the Williams-Brice Stadium early on Sunday morning.
