Ferdinand denounces expensive United star: ‘Wants to see more of him’

Rio Ferdinand has been critical of Manchester United striker Jadon Sancho on his own YouTube channel. The latter came over a year ago from Borussia Dortmund for 85 million, but the 22-year-old striker rarely manages to convince for Erik ten Hag’s team. Much to the chagrin of the club’s former defender: “He just has no self-confidence.”

In contrast, the now 43-year-old Ferdinand had high hopes for Sancho, who was often decisive at his previous club Borussia Dortmund. “The Sancho I know and have seen has done really great things,” he begins. “But that special that he had, that is gone since he has been playing at Old Trafford.” For Ferdinand, Sancho is even unrecognisable: “I see him carefully playing the ball back just to stay in possession. This is not you, man!”

Sancho does get compliments for his work ethic, though. “I credit him for his defensive work,” admits Ferdinand. “But attackingly something is missing,” he continues, “and that’s what United got him for anyway.” As far as Ferdinand is concerned, Sancho should be much more decisive: “He was bought to destroy teams. I want to see more of him.”

Sancho has been a regular base player under Erik ten Hag this season, but rarely plays the full 90 minutes. Last weekend, for instance, the Dutch coach brought him to the side shortly after half-time during the draw at Chelsea (1-1). Midweek, Sancho did have a share in the 2-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur. He provided the assist for Fred’s 1-0 in that match. Sancho still hopes to be part of England’s World Cup squad, but must seriously fear for his chances of going to Qatar. During the last international period in September, he was not in Gareth Southgate’s squad.