The hidden setback that stalled Sancho’s United career

November 14, 2025 Oliver Obel

In the summer of 2021, Sancho completed his long-awaited move from Borussia Dortmund to Manchester United in a £73 million deal. The transfer was billed as the missing piece in United’s attack — a skilful winger capable of unlocking defences and adding creativity in the final third.

But despite the excitement, Sancho’s performances never matched the hype. Over two seasons, he scored just 12 goals in 83 outings and struggled to cement a place in the starting lineup. His inconsistent form eventually led to loan spells — first back at Dortmund, and now at Aston Villa, where he’s looking to reignite his career.

Now 25, the England international has featured eight times for Villa under Unai Emery this season but is still chasing his first goal or assist.

The health issue no one knew about

Speaking on The Overlap — Gary Neville’s interview series — Solskjaer revealed for the first time that Sancho’s problems began even before his United debut.

“We wanted to take the next step — not move away from what we had, but add something different in the final third,” Solskjaer explained. “Jadon, with his skill, link-up play, and little passes around the box, gave us that.

“He was unlucky, though. Before he joined, he went on holiday, as you do, and ended up getting an ear infection.”

According to Solskjaer, the infection was bad enough to send Sancho to hospital and left him struggling through the early part of pre-season. The Norwegian said the illness meant Sancho started behind schedule, losing vital time to build fitness and chemistry with his new teammates.

Lost momentum under Solskjaer

“He was in hospital and really struggled for his first 10 days or so before he could even start training with us,” Solskjaer added. “That hasn’t really come out before. So, yeah, I never really got to play with him properly, because by the time he was finding form again, I was already on my way out.”

Solskjaer’s tenure ended in November 2021 after a poor run of results, and Sancho soon found himself adapting to yet another manager at Old Trafford. That early disruption, Solskjaer suggested, may have been a key factor in Sancho’s slow start.

Frustrations at Aston Villa

Fast forward to the 2025 Premier League season, and Sancho’s search for consistency continues. Last month, he endured an awkward moment during Villa’s 2–1 win when he was brought on for Emi Buendia — only to be substituted off himself 45 minutes later.

After the match, Emery addressed the decision, acknowledging that the situation was uncomfortable. “Yes, sure he’s not happy,” the Spaniard said. “But I did it before with Morgan Rogers, with Emiliano Buendia, with Leon Bailey, and he played 60 minutes on Thursday.”

Emery explained that his plan had been to use Sancho briefly, but an early injury forced a tactical reshuffle. “I told him as well — he can feel it, it’s embarrassing,” he added.

Searching for a spark

That early health setback at Manchester United might help explain why Sancho never truly settled at the club. Now, at Aston Villa, he has another chance to rediscover the spark that once made him one of Europe’s most promising young talents.

Still, patience is wearing thin among fans — and as the season unfolds, all eyes will be on whether Sancho can finally find the confidence and rhythm that once made him such a standout at Dortmund.

Sources: The Overlap, BBC Sport, Sky Sports