The story of Jadon Sancho’s struggle at Manchester United is a fascinating one, with a twist that will surprise many. A promising young talent, Sancho’s journey at Old Trafford was far from the fairytale many expected.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, the manager who pursued Sancho’s signature for years, finally got his man in the summer of 2021. United had finished second in the previous season, and the club was gearing up for a title challenge. However, things took an unexpected turn.
In the same transfer window, United also welcomed back the legendary Cristiano Ronaldo. With high expectations and a hefty price tag, Sancho’s arrival was overshadowed by Ronaldo’s return. United fans were eager to see the young winger shine, but it wasn’t to be.
Sancho’s start at United was slow and unconvincing, causing concern among the fans. Solskjaer faced pressure to play him, but there was a hidden reason for his early struggles. An ear infection, contracted during a holiday before joining United, landed Sancho in the hospital. He struggled for his first few weeks, unable to train or perform at his best. This crucial detail, revealed by Solskjaer himself, sheds new light on Sancho’s initial struggles.
But here’s where it gets controversial… While an ear infection can explain his poor start, it doesn’t excuse his overall performance at United. Under Erik ten Hag, Sancho’s attitude and behavior became a public issue. He publicly fell out with the manager, releasing a statement that suggested he was being unfairly treated. This unprofessional conduct marked a turning point in his United career.
And this is the part most people miss… Sancho’s loan move to Aston Villa, in the final year of his United contract, was a chance for him to prove himself. However, even during his loan spell, he aimed petty digs at United, showing a lack of respect. An ear infection might have affected his start, but the years of underperformance that followed are solely his responsibility.
So, what do you think? Is Sancho’s struggle at United solely down to his own failings, or were there other factors at play? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!