Jadon Sancho made a promising start to his season-long loan with Chelsea, but his long-term future remains uncertain as Manchester United prepare for a new era under management Ruben Amorim.
The 24-year-old winger joined Chelsea on loan this summer with the Blues obligated to buy him permanently next summer, provided they finish in the top 14 of the Premier League table.
The deal is expected to be worth an initial £20 million, with a potential increase of up to £25 million in add-ons.
Since arriving at Stamford Bridge, Sancho has played five times for Chelsea, making a positive impact off the bench. He provided the assist for Christopher Nkunku’s winning goal against Bournemouth in September and also recorded assists in wins against West Ham and Brighton.
However, the England international has been sidelined in recent weeks due to illness and a minor injury.
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca praised Sancho’s adaptation to the club’s attacking style of play, which the player himself described as “very attractive” and well suited to his strengths.
Despite Sancho’s promising start in west London, his long-term future remains uncertain. Former Southampton and West Ham defender Jose Fonte believes the player could make a ‘fresh start’ at Manchester United next summer, with Amorim set to take over as Old Trafford’s new manager.
Font said: “Jadon Sancho will have the opportunity to impress Ruben Amorim this summer because it is a new start and a new opportunity for everyone. Something could spark between him and Amorim because he knows exactly what he expects from his players in all areas of the pitch. He also likes to give the No.10s the freedom to be creative and that’s exactly what Sancho needs. This could be a great opportunity for him.
Manchester United parted ways with Erik ten Hag last month after a poor start to the 2024/25 season. Amorim, who previously managed Sporting CP, will officially take charge of the Red Devils after the current international break, with his first match in charge against Ipswich Town.
If Chelsea do not meet the criteria to make Sancho’s loan move permanent next summer, the player could potentially return to Manchester United and have the chance to impress Amorim, known for his attacking philosophy and ability to develop young talent.
Sancho’s time at Old Trafford has been mixed since his £73 million move from Borussia Dortmund in 2021.
After a difficult start, the winger showed glimpses of his qualities, but ultimately failed to establish himself as a consistent player under different managers.
As Sancho continues to work to regain his best form during his loan spell at Chelsea, the next chapter of his career remains uncertain.
The player’s future could depend on whether the Blues exercise their option to make the deal permanent or he gets a fresh start under Amorim at Manchester United.
