Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has stated that Jadon Sancho "could do better" but believes it is not the right time to discuss the forward's future. Speculation has emerged that Sancho could return to Manchester United after his loan spell at Chelsea concludes at the end of the season.
The winger, who joined on loan with a £25 million obligation to buy, is also subject to a £5 million penalty clause if Chelsea decides against making the move permanent. However, his performances have been underwhelming, as he has only found the net twice in 29 appearances and is currently on an 18-game goal drought.
When asked about the possibility of securing Sancho on a permanent basis, Maresca remained non-committal, emphasizing that his primary focus is on the team's remaining nine games of the season. He acknowledged that Sancho's numbers could be better but noted that several other players were also experiencing similar struggles.
While Sancho's future remains uncertain, his lack of form has raised doubts about whether Chelsea will activate the purchase clause, making his return to Manchester United a real possibility.
Maresca also addressed reports that he had canceled a scheduled day off for players who were not on international duty in March. This decision came after Chelsea's first-team squad suffered a 3-0 defeat against the club’s Under-21 side in a training match.
He admitted that the players had not met his high expectations but downplayed the situation, insisting that it was a normal occurrence and that relaxation during the international break was to be expected. Despite this setback, Chelsea now shifts its focus to their upcoming Premier League clash against Tottenham on Thursday.
The team has received a boost ahead of the match, with key players Cole Palmer, Nicolas Jackson, and Noni Madueke returning from injury. Maresca expressed his relief at having them back, pointing out that their absence had coincided with a difficult period for the team. However, midfielder Romeo Lavia remains a doubt for the fixture due to a minor issue, which could leave Chelsea slightly short in midfield as they prepare to face Ange Postecoglou’s side.
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