Ole Gunnar Solskjaer Reveals Why Jadon Sancho Struggled at Manchester United from Day One
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has revealed the unexpected reasons behind Jadon Sancho's difficult start at Manchester United, shedding light on challenges that began even before he appeared on the pitch.
Solskjaer explains Jadon Sancho's early Man Utd struggles, from a hospitalised ear infection to managerial changes affecting the £73m winger’s form.
The £73m signing arrived from Borussia Dortmund in the summer of 2021 amid high expectations. At 21, Sancho had dominated the Bundesliga with goals and assists, and United fans were eager to see him replicate that impact at Old Trafford. Solskjaer championed the transfer, highlighting Sancho’s skill, link-up play, and ability to unlock defenses.
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Sancho’s first days at the club were marred by misfortune. A holiday ended with an ear infection that left him hospitalized, delaying his training by around ten days. Solskjaer admitted this setback prevented the forward from integrating fully during his tenure, and by the time Sancho began finding form, the manager had already left the club in November 2021.
Erik ten Hag’s arrival ushered in a turbulent period. Sancho made 41 appearances in Ten Hag’s first season but later took a break due to physical and mental concerns. Attempts to rebuild his fitness and confidence in the Netherlands did not yield the desired results, and tensions grew between player and manager. Public criticism from Ten Hag regarding Sancho’s training standards sparked a social media response from the winger, who claimed he was made a scapegoat for United’s struggles.
Loans to Chelsea and Aston Villa followed, with flashes of his old brilliance but a lack of consistency. At 25, Sancho is on his third consecutive loan and has yet to make a Premier League start under Unai Emery, with the club reportedly planning to move him on permanently. Reports suggest he may accept a pay cut to return to Dortmund or that United could terminate his contract early to reduce their wage bill.
