Jadon Sancho was handed a rare start for Aston Villa on Thursday night after news emerged of Manchester United’s latest decision over the wingers’ future at Old Trafford
Jadon Sancho was afforded a rare chance in Unai Emery’s Aston Villa starting lineup against Maccabi Tel Aviv. The Manchester United loanee only served to leave former Villa captain Stilian Petrov disappointed in his side’s 2-0 win.
Sancho made just his third start of the season on Thursday night as he came into the side with Donyell Malen and Evann Guessand as Ollie Watkins dropped out. Goals from former Chelsea ace Ian Maatsen and Malen either side of half-time, secured victory for Emery’s men, to take them sixth in the league phase of their European competition.
Former Borussia Dortmund star Sancho lasted 75 minutes before being replaced by Youri Tielemans and he was just one of two players who did not impress Petrov. The ex-Celtic midfielder believes Sancho had an opportunity but failed to take advantage.
Speaking on TNT Sports, Petrov said: “A few of those players would have the opportunity to show the manager they should be in the starting XI. Really impressed (with Maatsen), every time he’s had the chance he always performs, he always impresses.
“I’m not sure if I can say that for Sancho and Guessand. I’m a bit disappointed there.”
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Sancho’s performance comes in the aftermath of being substituted on and off the pitch against Manchester City in the Premier League last month. The winger faced the ignominy of entering the field in the 29th minute and being replaced by Evann Guessand after 74 against Pep Guardiola’s men.
“I am so happy because his impact was good, his electricity, his skill, but then to play more than now, he’s not ready to play 90 minutes,” said Emery, explaining his decisions. “45 minutes is not easy enough for him, and I am happy and, of course, progressively, he’s getting better and better.”
With Sancho set to return from Old Trafford following his loan, it appears United chiefs have already made up their minds, however. The club are ready to let him leave for nothing next summer despite stumping up £73million five years ago.
The Red Devils have the option to trigger a 12-month extension as Sancho’s deal runs out in the summer. But United do not want to risk paying his £200,000-a-week wages if they fail to find a buyer, it is said.
In the summer, Amorim claimed that the likes of Sancho would not be sold cheaply just to see them depart. They now appear ready to cut their losses.
He said: “I know for a fact Omar (Barrada, CEO) and Jason (Wilcox, director of football) and the club have a number (price) for these players. If they don’t reach that, they will be Manchester United players, no doubt about that. I understand other clubs are maybe waiting for the last minute, but they can have a surprise.”
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Sky Sports discounted Premier League and EFL package
Sky has slashed the price of its Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle ahead of the 2025/26 season, saving members £336 and offering more than 1,400 live matches across the Premier League, EFL and more.
Sky will show at least 215 live Premier League games next season, an increase of up to 100 more.
