Manchester United may have been concerned about the possibility of yet another player quickly regaining their top form after leaving the club, particularly in light of Jadon Sancho’s initial performances at Chelsea. The 24-year-old appeared rejuvenated as he recorded assists in three consecutive matches against Bournemouth, West Ham United, and Brighton and Hove Albion.
However, Sancho has since reverted to a lackluster performance over the past three months, contributing to Chelsea’s erratic results. He showed a glimpse of his potential during Sunday’s 1-0 victory against Leicester City at Stamford Bridge, where he won a penalty after being fouled in the box. Nevertheless, Sancho has struggled to appear convincing in front of goal, and his assists have also diminished.
In his last 16 appearances, he has failed to score, with his only assist occurring during the 1-1 draw against Crystal Palace on January 4.
That assist for Palmer at Selhurst Park remains his sole contribution in the 19 Premier League matches that followed his initial creative burst at Chelsea.
Regardless of the perspective taken, a tally of two goals and six assists in 26 matches across all competitions is insufficient for a starting winger in a team aiming to reestablish itself among Europe’s elite.
Sancho expressed his frustrations following Marc Cucurella’s decisive goal against Leicester over the weekend.
“Step by step. I know I can do better, especially in front of goal. It’s annoying not to score, but I know it’ll come,” Sancho told Chelsea’s official website.
“You just have to take time and be patient, but step by step. We’re very happy with the points.
“It’s a great position to be in, we want to play Champions League next year, that’s the aim, but it’s gonna be very tough. We’ve got to keep at it 100% all of the time.”
United’s struggles in front of goal this season have highlighted the urgent need for a proven goalscorer to join the ranks at Old Trafford during the summer transfer window.
It is understood that this is a key focus for Amorim, alongside the acquisition of another forward who is better suited to the two attacking midfield roles.
In theory, Sancho’s playing style would have aligned perfectly with the 3-4-3 formation, and had Amorim taken charge last summer instead of in November, he might have remained with the team.
However, Sancho’s omission from Erik ten Hag’s initial squads drew attention to the inevitable changes ahead.
His departure was necessary, and his lackluster performances in the capital since have validated the decisions made by Ten Hag and United. The question of whether Sancho can succeed in the Premier League remains open.
Upon finalizing his £25 million transfer to Chelsea this summer, as stipulated in his loan agreement, it is likely that the selling club will emerge as the more satisfied party.