In an effort to help Jadon Sancho regain his peak form, Coach Erik ten Hag is placing him in the most advanced attacking position, and who knows, it might not be just a short-term solution?
In all three recent friendly matches against Leeds, Lyon, and Arsenal, Sancho was the highest positioned player in Manchester United's starting lineup. This is the left-winger's preferred position, as he enjoys operating freely along the right flank, similar to his time at Dortmund. However, under Ten Hag's management, he has been frequently deployed on the left wing.
The reality behind this arrangement is that Ten Hag doesn't currently have a proper striker at his disposal. Anthony Martial is facing health issues, and Marcus Rashford hasn't fully recovered his peak physical condition. Given the circumstances, and considering these are just friendly matches, it's not surprising to see Sancho playing as a central forward.
Yet, when assessed in essence, converting Sancho into a striker isn't an unrealistic idea. This 2000-born talent possesses all the qualities to become a "number 9", from technique, speed, finishing ability to particularly impressive one-on-one skills.
In the victory against Arsenal, Sancho scored a goal that delighted the Red Devils' fans. Exploiting the opponent's defensive error to the fullest, Sancho showcased his incredible pace, advancing into Arsenal's penalty box before delivering a powerful left-footed shot that left Aaron Ramsdale with no chance to save. His decision-making, which was previously a weak point, has notably improved. Ten Hag is delighted to see his player making the right moves ahead of 2 or 3 plays.
However, it's essential to remember that these are just friendly matches. They serve as a basis for reference but shouldn't be solely relied upon. Manchester United is actively pursuing a new striker, with Rasmus Hojlund as a specific target. Nevertheless, even if no new "number 9" is signed, Ten Hag's plan to use Sancho as a central forward in the upcoming season remains uncertain, especially if Rashford and Martial reach their desired fitness levels.
Nonetheless, Sancho's versatility in playing at a new position provides Ten Hag with an excellent alternative. He will no longer be confined to a specific area on the field but instead will become a well-rounded attacking player, just as Ten Hag envisions.
Recently, Gabriel Agbonlahor, former Aston Villa striker, advised Manchester United to be patient with Sancho: "It's true that Sancho hasn't lived up to the expectations of the board and MU fans. He understands the situation, which is why he deleted posts on Instagram and social media. He is determined to make a comeback, knowing that he needs to prove himself worthy of the substantial investment MU made. Sancho needs to get back to the basics, execute simple passes, and attract opposition players."
"I believe that Sancho is better than Jack Grealish, Marcus Rashford, and other young English wingers. There's still a chance for him to break into Manchester United's starting lineup, as he is better than Antony as well. He just needs to focus and regain his best form."
