Manchester United’s big move to sign Jadon Sancho in 2021 did not work out as a success.
Jadon Sancho made a brief return to play for Manchester United during pre-season, but nobody was convinced it would last.
Sancho’s final game for United was in the Community Shield, where he missed a penalty in the shootout, a moment which encapsulated a disappointing career at the club.
The winger is now out on loan at Chelsea, where he has made a bright start, before a more divisive display in his last appearance.
Jadon Sancho called out by Erik ten Hag
The beginning of the end for Jadon Sancho came in September 2023 where he had a flare-up with Erik ten Hag.
Ten Hag expressed frustration with Jadon Sancho’s training performances, which the winger disputed on social media.
Sancho refused to apologise to Ten Hag, leading to him being ostracised and sent out on loan to Borussia Dortmund.
His time at Dortmund was inconsistent in the Bundesliga, but he did play a starring role in the Champions League semi-finals, showcasing his talent.
Mike Phelan speaks out
Former Manchester United assistant coach Mike Phelan has now spoken out on Jadon Sancho, backing up the claims.
Speaking on Talksport, Phelan was asked about Jadon Sancho and said he was a big believer in his talent.
He explained: “We had no issues with Jadon whatsoever. No issues at all.
“The only thing was to get him out there on the training ground and get out of him exactly what we thought his qualities were.
“That didn’t happen for some reason. There were bits of moments, but ultimately he didn’t progress in a way he probably should have.”
Phelan’s comments speak relatively well of Sancho, yet also imply a real disconnect between the player and the coaching staff.
That falls on the player and the staff, and also the recruitment team. If United thought they were getting a certain type of player with Sancho, and found a very different one when he signed, then something went wrong somewhere.
It was an expensive mistake for United, with many viewing the winger among the club’s worst ever signings.
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