Jadon Sancho is ‘thankful’ to Chelsea after a loan spell from Manchester United that started with a star turn

On-loan striker Jadon Sancho thanked Chelsea after playing at Bournemouth in the Premier League in his first appearance following a season-long switch to Stamford Bridge.

Former England striker Sancho joined United for £73 million from Borussia Dortmund in July 2021 but struggled at Old Trafford and returned to the German club on loan for the second half of last season.

“It’s amazing to play for Chelsea for the first time,” the 24-year-old told Sky Sports after scoring one goal against Christopher Nkunku.

“I have to thank the staff and the players. From day one they made me feel welcome. Thank you for coming back to play.”

“I was working hard at this moment” 💪

Jadon Sancho after helping with his first Chelsea dream 💬 pic.twitter.com/VFKPNMtPo4

– Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) September 14, 2024

Bournemouth vs Chelsea: Sancho to help

Nkunku’s brilliant finish four minutes before the end of the game made it two wins in two games for Chelsea after the Blues survived their opponents’ penalty misses and hit the woodwork twice.

Sancho’s assist at the Vitality Stadium was his first in England since he produced one for United against Chelsea in May 2023.

He replaced £54 million summer signing Pedro Neto at half-time and was awarded the man of the match award by Nkunku, who netted seven minutes from time.

“He looked like he was really enjoying his football!” 🤩

Jamie Carragher on Jadon Sancho’s move to Chelsea, which could put his career “back on track” ⬇ pic.twitter.com/DV5N3Shmlx

– Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) September 14, 2024

“We’re in,” said Sancho, who Chelsea are bound to sign for around £25m at the end of his loan spell. “I’ve been working hard at the moment and I’m glad I got my chance.

“I finished last season well, playing in the Champions League final. I told myself that I will start the season well and it is good to start with a win.”

“All the noise around Jadon Sancho and Joao Felix… I don’t care!”

Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca “sees nothing wrong” with Jadon Sancho and Joao Felix 🔵 pic.twitter.com/K1AV8WbblC

– Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) September 14, 2024

Sancho, Joao Felix ‘good’

Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca said he “sees no problems” with Sancho or striker Joao Felix, who signed for £45m from Atletico Madrid on August 21.

Both players have been watched for their form in recent seasons, with Felix opening his account for the team’s second in their 6-2 win over Wolves in their previous league game.

“I don’t see anything bad,” added Maresca. “For me, Jadon and Joao are very good players. I came [Sancho] he was a good player and he can help us.

“All the noise there is [his attitude]… I don’t care. With us, you are very polite. He trains well in and outside of football.”