In brief
Jadon Sancho’s pressure and lack of impact at Chelsea are reminiscent of his problems at Manchester United.
Sancho’s lacklustre effort against Copenhagen exposed his shortcomings and did little to help the team.
Chelsea supporters are becoming increasingly irate and demanding Sancho’s dismissal because of his poor play.
After contributing five goals in his first nine Premier League games, Jadon Sancho’s time in west London now resembles an hourglass running dry. His Chelsea journey began with fireworks. Concerns were only heightened by his most recent lacklustre performance in Chelsea’s 1-0 Europa Conference League victory against Copenhagen on Thursday night.
Once a product of the Manchester City academy who went on to become a sensation for Borussia Dortmund, Sancho’s terrible tenure at Manchester United was frequently attributed to the atmosphere more than his skill or disposition. However, it’s becoming evident that the same issues that forced him to leave Old Trafford are following him to London as his loan under Enzo Maresca extends from days to weeks and weeks to months.
The pressure is only increased by the intense battle for spots at Stamford Bridge. Despite spending more than £40 million on Joao Felix in the summer, Chelsea’s readiness to send him on loan to AC Milan in January says a lot about the club’s high standards. However, Sancho appears to be no closer to finding his place in English football eight months after leaving United.
How Jadon Sancho Performed in Chelsea’s 1-0 Win over Copenhagen
He managed to notch his first shot on target in 2025
Remarkably, Sancho’s midweek performance was the first time he had scored a goal in 2025. Prior to it, he had played 780 minutes in 14 games in all competitions without having to make a stop; his most recent goalkeeping test came on Boxing Day against Fulham. There may have been a slight sense of relief in finally ending that drought, but it didn’t make up for another lacklustre performance.
Jadon Sancho hasn’t finished a cross in 2025 either, as evidenced by the fact that he didn’t even try one against Copenhagen in the Europa Conference League.
The winger made no important passes, attempted no crosses or long balls, lost control eight times, and failed to contribute to any goals during his arduous 65-minute outing. He basically contributed nothing to his team’s win and was only a supporting player as the Blues advanced thanks to a 3-1 overall score.
Statistics of Jadon Sancho’s games against Copenhagen
Minutes
65
Objectives
0
Helps
0
Accuracy passing
16/18 (89%)
Passes for keys
0
Crosses
0
Long spheres
0
(On target) shots
One (1)
Effective dribbles
4/8 (50%)
Loss of possession
8.
Defensive measures
One
He received a 4/10 rating from GOAL, which stated: “Unable to link up with the other attackers in a really quiet game,” and a 5/10 rating from The Chelsea Chronicle, which wasn’t much better. They penned:
“During the first forty-five minutes, neither Jadon Sancho nor the rest of Chelsea’s assault did anything. He put a strong effort on goal at the beginning of the second half, but the opposing custodian made a straightforward save. In the 65th minute, he was replaced by Christopher Nkunku.
The patience of Sancho Chelsea supporters is ebbing as the pressure keeps increasing.
For Chelsea, Cole Palmer may often be a one-man show, but in recent weeks, it has been clear that he needs help from others to perform at his best. He continues to set up opportunities for his teammates, but he doesn’t get much credit for it because those around him can’t match his skill level.
The Stamford Bridge supporters are becoming increasingly frustrated with this, and Sancho is definitely one of those players who isn’t living up to the expectations of a team that wants to compete on the greatest stages and win trophies. After his appearance on Thursday night, one X user stated, “Do whatever it takes to get rid of him,” while another added, “Nobody has talked about his form enough – he’s been bad.”
“Form’s fallen off a cliff at the worst time when all the other players in his place are injured or suspended,” someone commented in a third comment. “Sancho is useless,” someone more stated. Come on, Manchester United, and get your boy. We’re finished. A fifth went on:
“In five-a-side football, he plays as if he belongs. Given how little he performs in matches that are important, I simply don’t see how this guy even has fans.”
Another user came to the conclusion that Sancho’s future is still uncertain as the season’s business end draws closer. “It’s abundantly clear that he’s a very limited player,” the user said. However, Chelsea is worried since they signed a deal with United before the 2024–2025 season that required them to purchase Sancho if the Blues placed 14th or higher in the Premier League.
It’s inconceivable that Enzo Maresca’s team, who are presently in the running for Champions League qualifying, will falter that much, so Chelsea supporters will have to adjust to Sancho’s presence whether they like it or not.
