In Focus: Sancho's Man Utd days numbered after public outburst

Jadon Sancho is at the centre of an unfolding saga at Manchester United.

The England international believes he has been used as a "scapegoat" after scathing criticism from Erik ten Hag.

Sancho's performances in training were questioned by the United boss following the 3-1 defeat at Arsenal last Sunday, when he was not part of the travelling squad.

We take a look at what the future might hold for the 23-year-old forward.

War of words

In the aftermath of United's second away defeat of the season, Ten Hag explained Sancho's surprise omission from the matchday party.

The ex-Ajax manager said: "Jadon, on his performances in training we did not select him.

"You have to reach a level every day at Manchester United and we can make choices in the front line. So for this game he was not selected."

Sancho responded to the comments on social media shortly after full-time at the Emirates.

He wrote: "Please don't believe everything you read! I will not allow people saying things that are completely untrue, I have conducted myself in training very well this week.

"I believe there are other reasons for this matter that I won't go into, l've been a scapegoat for a long time which isn't fair!

"I respect all decisions that are made by the coaching staff. I play with fantastic players and am grateful to do so which I know every week is a challenge.

"I will continue to fight for this badge no matter what!"

Output decline

Sancho is into his third campaign at United but has yet to start a Premier League game this term — despite impressing in pre-season.

He scored in United's 2-0 win over Arsenal in New Jersey and looked in good shape to compete with Antony for the right-wing spot in the Red Devils XI.

The London-born talent also impressed in fits and starts in 2022-23, either side of a sabbatical afforded to him by Ten Hag between October and February — which included an individual winter fitness programme in the Netherlands.

Sancho finished with seven goals and three assists from 41 appearances in all competitions.

However, his output has still declined substantially from his days at Borussia Dortmund, where he recorded 38 goals and 45 assists in four Bundesliga seasons — and netted five times in 21 Champions League outings.

Exit on the cards

Sancho's lack of consistency is what has significantly impacted his United career up until now.

On the situation, ex-Red Devils striker Dwight Yorke said: "He's [Sancho] an exceptional talent. He just hasn't been able to produce it for us on a consistent basis.

"It's hard to start pointing your finger until you know the exact details.

"I've been in that situation myself, so I kind of understand how it works. But it's a little bit strange at the minute."

It is hard to see a way back for Sancho under Ten Hag, especially with young forwards Alejandro Garnacho and Facundo Pellistri now pushing for regular first-team opportunities at Old Trafford.

And given that club legend Cristiano Ronaldo had his contract terminated by mutual consent last season after a public feud with the United boss, the Englishman's days in Manchester look numbered.

A January transfer appears the best course of action for all parties.