“Football players aren’t robots” – Erik ten Hag gives detailed account of Jadon Sancho’s mental issues

Jadon Sancho has been out of action for Manchester United since October, suffering from mental and physical issues.

Sancho, 22, signed for the Old Trafford club in the summer of 2021 and has struggled to consistently show the form from Borussia Dortmund that earned him the move.

His talent is undeniable, however, and Erik ten Hag has stressed the importance of timing his return to the squad correctly, despite a lack of depth in the United forward line.

“I would like to have Jadon back as soon as possible,” the manager admitted. “But also in this, I can’t force this process and so I will do everything that’s in my power but some processes you can’t force and this is one of them.

“I have also to show patience, although I don’t have the patience because we have a lack of opportunities in the frontline, players who are available and capable to contribute in the Premier League.

“We have some hurdles to take but I think he’s in a good direction. And what I say is I can’t force this process and so I don’t do [it]. But I would be really happy when he returns to the squad for team training, so that will be the next step.”

The winger returned to the club last week after spending time training individual in the Netherlands with Ten Hag’s recommended coaches.

Once Sancho does return, it will be to a team that is in a much better position than beforehand and that could help him finally flourish in red.

“Jadon is one – when he is fit – he will contribute, and then we have an extra option, and so we will have more chance of winning a lot of games,” added Ten Hag.

The potential psychological impacts on players was shown through the turnaround in Marcus Rashford’s form this season. The forward has explained multiple times that he’s more mentally prepared under Ten Hag and his 12 goals so far this season show the positive effects of his improved mental state.

It could be a similar situation with Sancho, and Ten Hag has shown — through his careful treatment; including sending the winger on an individual training camp — his understanding of situations that many other managers could overlook.

“In this moment he is not fit enough, no. I said, physical. But physical is also the connection with mental.

“I think many top athletes, in football and also in other sports, sometimes it’s good to go away from the place where you are at daily to get a new vibe and a new experience. People have a different approach, and this can give you the right push to get back on track.

“Football players aren’t robots. No one is the same. I think for everyone, you need an individual approach. We thought that, in cooperation with Jadon, it was the best choice.”

It will be hoped that Sancho is able to return in time for Premier League fixtures against Manchester City and Arsenal later this month.