Sancho's career has been turbulent in recent years. After falling out with former United manager Erik ten Hag over his training performances, he was loaned to Borussia Dortmund for the second half of last season. Now, despite an initial bright spell at Chelsea, his form has dipped significantly. In 18 appearances since December, he has provided just one assist, with his last goal coming against Tottenham on December 8. His struggles have raised concerns, especially as Chelsea is actively looking to strengthen their attack in the summer, targeting another winger and a striker. They have already secured a £42 million deal for Sporting's 17-year-old winger Geovany Quenda, set to join in 2026.
United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe recently referenced Sancho's situation, highlighting that United still owes payments from his £73 million transfer from Dortmund in 2021. "For Sancho, who now plays for Chelsea, and we pay half his wages, we are paying £17 million to buy him in the summer," Ratcliffe stated. This further complicates Sancho's future, as United may be keen to sell but Chelsea appears hesitant. Sancho's contract at United runs until 2026, with an option for a one-year extension, leaving his next move uncertain.
His statistics paint a concerning picture. Despite much attention on Cole Palmer's goal drought, Sancho's struggles are even more pronounced. He has scored just twice in 29 appearances for Chelsea and provided only three assists beyond the three he managed in his first few games. His attacking contributions are among the lowest at the club, with only Mykhailo Mudryk, who has been provisionally banned since December, posting worse numbers. To add to his woes, none of Sancho's last 19 Premier League crosses have reached a teammate. Chelsea's concerns about his performance could ultimately lead them to trigger the £5 million clause and send him back to Old Trafford.
