Chelsea Must Drop Jackson and Recall Chilwell to Unlock Jadon Sancho’s Potential
Jadon Sancho’s move to Chelsea on loan from Manchester United offers him a fresh opportunity to rediscover the form that once made him one of Europe’s most promising wingers.
Sancho’s time at Old Trafford was plagued by inconsistency and off-field issues, and his arrival at Chelsea under Enzo Maresca could unlock his potential if certain tactical adjustments are made.
1. Dropping Nicolas Jackson for Christopher Nkunku
Sancho’s immediate connection with Christopher Nkunku in Chelsea’s 1-0 victory over Bournemouth was a key takeaway. Their fluid interplay could lead to a formidable partnership, with Nkunku’s movement and creativity providing Sancho more opportunities to express himself. In contrast, Jackson’s more static positioning up top may limit Sancho’s ability to cut inside and link up play. By shifting Nkunku to a more central role, Maresca could give Sancho a more dynamic partner in attack, allowing him to thrive.
2. Recalling Ben Chilwell
Sancho performs best with a full-back who overlaps and supports him in attack, something he rarely experienced at Manchester United. Chelsea’s current left-back options, Marc Cucurella and Renato Veiga, are more defensively minded, which leaves Sancho isolated on the wing. Recalling Ben Chilwell from the “bomb squad” could provide Sancho with the attacking support he needs. Chilwell’s ability to push forward and stretch defenses would give Sancho more space to operate and create chances.
3. A Different Approach to Managing Sancho
Erik ten Hag’s hardline approach didn’t work with Sancho at United, and a more supportive environment may be key to unlocking his potential. At Borussia Dortmund, Sancho thrived when given the freedom to play with confidence, and Maresca may need to offer a similar level of backing. If Maresca can put an arm around Sancho and build a team structure that accommodates his talents, Chelsea may see the best of the winger.
By adjusting tactics and providing Sancho with the right support, Chelsea could help him regain the form that made him such a coveted talent. His partnership with Nkunku and the presence of an overlapping full-back like Chilwell may be essential to his resurgence in London.
Chelsea Must Drop Jackson and Recall Chilwell to Unlock Jadon Sancho’s Potential
