Jadon Sancho receives message from Man Utd star after impressive Chelsea debut

Jadon Sancho produced a strong debut for Chelsea as they overcame Bournemouth away from home on Saturday night. The Blues needed a penalty save from Robert Sanchez to remain on level terms before Christopher Nkunku scored the all-important winner four minutes from time.

Chelsea had a number of bright performers, and debutant Sancho was one of them, with the England winger making his first appearance for the club after joining from Manchester United on a loan deal that includes an obligation to buy clause.

Sancho came on at half-time and wound up providing the assist for the Nkunku winner, and it was some start to his Blues career. The winger has had a turbulent last year or so, falling out with Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag, and with both parties refusing to apologise, he was sent back to Borussia Dortmund on loan.

He reached the Champions League final with the German giants, although they ultimately fell short to Real Madrid. There was uncertainty aplenty surrounding his situation heading into this season, and while he and Ten Hag seemed to make up, the Red Devils remained open to a possible deal that would see the winger depart, given he struggled to meet expectations following his £73million move to Old Trafford in 2021.

Now at Chelsea, Sancho will get a fresh start in an Enzo Maresca system that favours wing play, something a number of players have already spoken about. And while he won’t be liked by everyone at United, given how things played out, he does still have a loyal supporter in United captain Bruno Fernandez.

After the England international impressed on his debut, Fernandes commented on Sancho’s Instagram post by writing: “Some player you (fire emoji). Keep that smile.” A nice touch from Fernandes, who has earned a reputation of getting behind his teammates and friends who play elsewhere.