‘The manager spoke to me’: Sancho speaks out for the first time since United exit, explains why he pushed for move

Manchester United announced on Saturday evening that Jadon Sancho would be spending the campaign on loan with Chelsea.

Luckily for United, they were able to negotiate a deal which included an obligation to buy – something that should’ve been implemented in Sancho’s Borussia Dortmund terms last winter.

Nonetheless, the Red Devils are poised to recuperate £20-25 million upon the culmination of his temporary spell, with Chelsea paying the majority of his £250,000-a-week wages.

Despite making amends with Erik ten Hag at the beginning of pre-season, Sancho had seemingly made it clear behind the scenes that his long-term plans were away from Old Trafford. Given his exit made little difference to the squad last term, the club were satisfied they could offload him with no requirement to bring in an alternative late in the window.

The 24-year-old was dropped from Ten Hag’s matchday squads for the opening two fixtures of the term, and, when learning of his omittance against Fulham, he could be heard ‘reaffirming his desire to leave’, per The Athletic.

Now, his wishes have indeed been granted, and he leaves the Red Devils with 12 goals to his name in 83 appearances. His last Premier League outing came over a year ago.

Sancho reacts to Chelsea switch

After his deadline day switch was finalised, he expressed his delight at joining Enzo Maresca’s project.

“I’m really excited to be here. London is where I grew up and I’m happy to be back,” he began. “The manager spoke to me about the project and, for a young player, it’s exciting”.

“Hopefully, I can bring goals and assists to the Bridge.”