Jadon Sancho has not kicked a ball for Manchester United since last August, but now nearly 12-months on his Old Trafford career is remarkably back-on-track.
The whole Sancho saga began when he took issue with United manager Erik Ten Hag for questioning his training, after he was asked to explain why he had left the winger out of their game at Arsenal in early September.
“On his performance in training, we didn’t select him. You have to reach the level every day at Manchester United,” Ten Hag said at the time, which prompted a stinging response from Sancho via his social media in which he said the remarks were “completely untrue”.
United released a statement little over ten days after the Arsenal game confirming that Sancho would be training away the first-team squad after he refused to apologise to Ten Hag.
Borussia Dortmund and Juventus wanted Jadon Sancho
The situation remained unresolved and come the January transfer window a loan move to Borussia Dortmund was finalised and Sancho enjoyed a brilliant second-half to the season in Germany, helping them to the Champions League final – which they lost to Real Madrid.
Dortmund had looked to agree a new loan with United, whilst Italian giants Juventus had also held talks with The Red Devils and Sancho, but things have suddenly taken an unexpected turn.
After returning to pre-season training this week, United revealed that Sancho is back in the first-team fold.
United confirmed Sancho’s presence in training on Thursday, stating: “Jadon Sancho returned for testing on Wednesday following his loan spell at Borussia Dortmund during the second half of last season. The 24-year-old forward then trained with the group on Thursday.”
Jadon Sancho made first move to settle differences with Erik Ten Hag
HITC can confirm that Sancho held talks with United this week, which prompted a meeting with Erik Ten Hag.
Sources have told HITC that Sancho made the first-move and Ten Hag welcomed the decision – although neither side are as yet confirming if an apology was made.
Ten Hag’s own situation was only resolved last month when United confirmed the Dutchman would be staying on as manager following their end-of-season review. He has since signed a new two-year deal at Old Trafford.
HITC can confirm that during the review Sancho’s situation was discussed at length, and the club felt that Ten Hag dealt with the whole scenario in thoroughly professional manner and had acted correctly throughout.
Indeed, Ten Hag’s dealing with Sancho, as well as the way he tackled the issues surrounding Marcus Rashford and Mason Greenwood, counted in his favour when they assessed his future.
- READ MORE – Manchester United receive boost for Manuel Ugarte deal as club now faces £42m hammer blow
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
