Michael Carrick's Past Praise for Jadon Sancho Fuels Manchester United Return Speculation
Manchester United interim manager Michael Carrick has previously expressed high regard for winger Jadon Sancho, sparking speculation about a potential return to Old Trafford for the player. Sancho, currently on loan at rivals Aston Villa, faces an uncertain future as his contract with United nears its expiration this summer.
Sancho's Struggles During Aston Villa Loan Spell
The 25-year-old winger has made limited impact at Villa Park this season, despite the club's impressive third-place standing in the Premier League. Sancho has managed only seven starts in 28 appearances, failing to register a single goal or assist in the league. His sole contribution came in the Europa League, where he scored in a 1-0 victory against Fenerbahce.
This loan follows previous stints at Borussia Dortmund and Chelsea, which helped Sancho regain some confidence after a public falling-out with former United manager Erik ten Hag. However, his time at Villa has been marked by inconsistency and limited playing time.
Carrick's Positive Comments from 2021 Resurface
Carrick, who has returned to an interim managerial role at United following Ruben Amorim's dismissal, previously worked closely with Sancho during a brief caretaker stint in 2021. After Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's departure, Carrick oversaw three matches, securing two wins and a draw.
Sancho scored in Carrick's first game in charge, a 2-0 Champions League victory against Villarreal. The interim boss was effusive in his praise afterwards, highlighting the winger's all-round performance.
"To finish it off, Jadon was brilliant," Carrick said at the time. "I know how much Jadon loves having the ball at his feet and trying to make things happen, it's where he's happiest. But on the other side of the game, he put a real effort into defence and it was a big night for him."
Carrick further emphasised his appreciation for Sancho's work ethic, stating: "I was so pleased for Jadon. I thought he worked his socks off tonight, I thought he gave everything tonight. At times, it wasn't always with the ball and I know how much he enjoys having the ball at his feet and trying to make things happen. He showed a different side tonight and, to get his goal at the end, pretty much capped it off perfectly for him and for us."
United's Decision-Making and Sancho's Future
With only Premier League commitments remaining this season, Carrick is expected to assess several overlooked United players currently out on loan, including Sancho. The club faces a crucial decision regarding the winger's future as his contract approaches its conclusion.
Reports suggest United are considering releasing Sancho on a free transfer this summer to avoid paying his substantial salary for another year if he remains unwanted. However, Carrick's positive relationship with the player and his evident belief in Sancho's abilities could influence this decision.
The interim manager's impact might prove instrumental in either engineering a remarkable comeback for the sidelined winger at Old Trafford or enhancing his appeal to other interested clubs. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on whether Carrick's past admiration translates into present opportunities for Sancho at Manchester United.
