Unai Emery delivers blunt Jadon Sancho assessment

Manchester United’s wide options continue to draw attention as the season reaches a decisive phase, with several players currently away from Old Trafford on loan as the club assess its long-term plans.

For instance, uncertainty surrounds Marcus Rashford’s future, with questions over whether he will remain at Barcelona or return to Manchester United once his loan spell ends, as the club waits for a new president to be elected.

Another example is with Jadon Sancho, who joined Aston Villa on loan in the summer.

Sancho’s time away from Manchester has been closely monitored by supporters and decision-makers alike, especially with United entering a period of transition under newly appointed interim head coach Michael Carrick.

With key fixtures ahead and contract situations looming, performances away from the club are expected to carry weight when final calls are made.

The winger is currently spending the season at Villa Park, where opportunities have been mixed. Despite recently scoring his first goal for the club and showing clear improvement, consistency has remained elusive – something that has not gone unnoticed by Villa boss Unai Emery.

Speaking after their recent draw in the Premier League at the Vitality Stadium vs AFC Bournemouth, Emery has made his stance clear when discussing the England international’s progress.

He said: “Hopefully he is getting better and he can help us in this process like he is, getting better. I expect more from him, and because I am positive, hopefully he will give us it.”

That assessment is particularly relevant from a Manchester United perspective.

Sancho’s current deal at Old Trafford is due to expire in the summer, and it’s looking very unlikely that he will find an agreement on an extension.

The 25-year-old winger has spent much of the past two seasons away from Manchester United, with multiple loan moves aimed at resetting his career.

Despite moments of promise, a sustained run of performances has remained out of reach – something Emery alluded to with his call for greater output.

As United prepare for a pivotal summer, clarity over Sancho’s future is expected sooner rather than later.

Whether that involves an unlikely return to Old Trafford or a permanent move elsewhere may ultimately depend on whether he can deliver the consistency both clubs are demanding.