Erik Ten Hag is reportedly stunned by the manner in which his seeming feud with Jadon Sancho has been magnified.
Sancho was left out of Manchester United’s squad to face Arsenal by Ten Hag, who shared the reason for the Englishman’s absence after the game.
Following the 3-1 loss to Arsenal on Sunday, September 3, 2023, Erik Ten Hag said in a presser: “On his performance in training we didn’t select him.
“You have to reach the level every day at Manchester United. You can make choices in the front line, so in this game, he wasn’t selected.”
Jadon Sancho joined Manchester United on July 23, 2021, from Borussia Dortmund for a fee of €85 million.
According to reports, Ten Hag hoped that Sancho’s omission from the Arsenal match would spur the attacker to put in his 100% every time he plays for the Red Devils.
However, the Dutch manager was displeased with Sancho’s response, with the English player sharing a lengthy statement on Twitter (now known as X).
An excerpt from his statement reads: “I have been a scapegoat for a long time which isn’t fair! All I want to do is play football with a smile on my face and contribute to my team.”
Sancho respects Manchester United coaching staff
The 23-year-old added that he fully respects the decisions made by Manchester United’s coaching staff.
He wrote: “I respect all decisions that are made by the coaching staff, I play with fantastic players… I will continue to fight for this badge no matter what!”
Jadon Sancho has made 82 appearances for Manchester United, scoring 12 goals and providing 6 assists across all competitions.
He was trailed for a lengthy period by the Old Trafford club, before he was signed in July 2021, for a huge sum.
However, Sancho has failed to hit the lofty heights expected of him at Manchester United, given his remarkable showing at Borussia Dortmund.
Erik Ten Hag issue with Jadon Sancho blown out of proportion
Erik Ten Hag feels the issue with Jadon Sancho has been taken to an unexpected level, and he is of the notion that they can settle their differences.
Reports indicate that the former Borussia Dortmund winger is still in the plans of Ten Hag if he can prove his mettle.
However, the Dutch manager also maintains his position that his authority cannot be overruled by any player whatsoever.
Erik Ten Hag has consistently indicated the need for players to show discipline, and he has over time punished certain players who have exhibited indiscipline irrespective of their rank in the team.
Meanwhile, reports indicate that Ten Hag would not have stopped Sancho from departing Manchester United if the club had agreed a deal to transfer the winger to the Saudi Pro League.
Steven Gerrard’s Al-Ettifaq were reportedly amongst the clubs interested in signing Jadon Sancho on loan from the English giants.
