Benni McCarthy training at Manchester United

Jadon Sancho’s Man Utd struggles explained as Juventus talks heat up

Adem Ozcan Last updated: Jul 3, 2025, 3:29 pm
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Image: Getty Images

Jadon Sancho’s Manchester United future looks all but over — and talks with Juventus are progressing fast.

But while fans and media have often criticised Sancho’s character, a former Man Utd coach has defended the winger, offering a different perspective on his time at Carrington.

Sancho’s Quiet Nature Misjudged, Says Ex-Coach

Benni McCarthy, who worked closely with Sancho at United, insists the £73m signing was misunderstood.

“He brought unmatched quality… but he’s a quiet, private person — not a problem,”
— Benni McCarthy

However, he went on to comment on Sancho’s main struggles with consistency, adding: “I think that when it came to Erik, he wanted to see Jadon at his best everyday. Monday to Friday, no days off. I think that’s what the manager would expect from his players, and so it’s up to the players to give it to him. If you can’t do that, you’re going to have problems, and I think the differences and problems then surfaced.

Sancho was often seen heading straight home after training. While this fuelled rumours of a poor attitude, McCarthy says Sancho’s introversion was mistaken for arrogance.

Falling Out with Ten Hag Sparked Downfall

Sancho’s public feud with Erik ten Hag in September 2023 led to his first-team exile. After refusing to apologise for calling out the manager on social media, the winger was loaned to Dortmund, then Chelsea.

He played a small role at Stamford Bridge last season but did score in their Europa Conference League final win.

Chelsea chose not to keep him permanently — paying a £5m fee to walk away from the £25m buy option.

Amorim Has No Plans for Sancho

New boss Rúben Amorim hasn’t shown interest in reintegrating Sancho. With wage concerns and little appetite for another internal rebuild, United are open to selling this summer.

Juventus have renewed their interest, seeing the winger as a value opportunity — but there’s a catch.

Juventus Keen — But Wages a Sticking Point

The Serie A club are reportedly willing to meet United’s £25m valuation, but Sancho’s £300k-per-week wages are a major obstacle.

To ease the deal, Juve have proposed several players in a possible swap deal — including:

  • Douglas Luiz
  • Timothy Weah
  • Dusan Vlahovic

United have not yet responded, with Amorim reportedly preferring straight cash to boost his transfer budget.

Jadon Sancho 2024/25 Stats (Chelsea)

Match Stat Value
Premier League Appearances 21
Goals 3
Assists 4
Conference League Final Goals 1
Big Chances Created 12

Analyst Verdict

Sancho’s exit looks inevitable. But as Benni McCarthy makes clear, the narrative around his attitude may have been skewed from the start. Juventus could land a motivated talent — if they can find the right formula.

Key Insights

  • Sancho’s introverted nature was misread as a bad attitude
  • Juventus remain in talks but reluctant to meet wage demands
  • United open to cash or part-exchange
  • McCarthy: “Unplayable on his day”
  • Amorim plans to move on from Sancho entirely

What’s Next?

Juventus will push to negotiate Sancho’s wages or strike a swap deal. If terms are agreed, a transfer could be completed before pre-season begins.

Should United cut their losses on Sancho now — or wait for a better bid?

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