Manchester United have confirmed that the winger Jadon Sancho will leave the club as a free agent when his contract expires, ending a difficult five-year stay at Old Trafford.
The 26-year-old departs after failing to live up to expectations following his £73m move from Borussia Dortmund in 2021, with the club officially releasing their Premier League retained list confirming his departure.
Sancho made 83 appearances for United in all competitions but failed to establish himself as a regular starter, registering just 12 goals and six assists during his time in England.
His spell was also disrupted by a major conflict with management, followed by multiple loan spells from the club.
Early promise fails to translate in England
Sancho arrived at United as one of the most highly regarded young wings in Europe after a remarkable spell in the Bundesliga, where his creativity and results at Borussia Dortmund made him one of the most sought-after strikers in world football.
However, the transition to the Premier League proved challenging. Despite flashes of technical quality, he failed to maintain his form or secure a long-term role in the team, eventually spending time on loan at Dortmund and later at clubs in England.
United’s statement confirmed his departure along with Casemiro and Tyrell Malacia as the club continue the process of restructuring the squad ahead of the new season.
The club said: “Jadon Sancho arrived at Old Trafford in 2021 and was also part of the squad that won the 2023 Carabao Cup.
“The winger played 83 times for the club before returning to Borussia Dortmund on loan and also had temporary moves to Chelsea and Aston Villa. Everyone at the club would like to thank Casemir, Tyrell and Jadon for their contributions and wish them the best of luck for the future.”
A return to Germany remains a likely option
Despite his struggles in England, Sancho still retains a strong interest in Germany, where he previously enjoyed the most productive period of his career. Reports suggest Borussia Dortmund remain open to a third-placed move for the winger as he looks to rebuild his momentum.
Sancho previously recorded 114 goals in 137 appearances during his first spell at Dortmund, a level of output he has not replicated since leaving the Bundesliga.
His departure marks another high-profile reset at Manchester United, who are now focused on reducing their wage structure ahead of the transfer window.
