Manchester United’s manager, Erik ten Hag, is reportedly preparing to experiment with Jadon Sancho in a novel and unprecedented role this season. This tactical shift comes as the Red Devils contend with a series of pre-season injuries that have affected key players such as Rasmus Hojlund, Leny Yoro, and Jonny Evans.
In their final match of the U.S. tour, a 3-0 defeat against Liverpool, Sancho was seen playing in a new attacking position. This move signals ten Hag’s willingness to innovate and adapt his lineup ahead of the Community Shield and the upcoming season. Manchester United is optimistic that their senior players, who have been engaged in international commitments over the summer, will return to full fitness soon.
Among the players yet to rejoin the squad are Luke Shaw and Kobbie Mainoo, who are still recovering from England’s Euro 2024 final loss. Meanwhile, Bruno Fernandes, Alejandro Garnacho, and Diogo Dalot have resumed training at Carrington, which is a positive sign for the team’s preparations.
Following the loss to Liverpool, ten Hag was questioned about his attacking strategy for the imminent clash against Manchester City. He confirmed that Sancho could indeed be an option as a striker, stating, “Yes, otherwise we wouldn’t play with him there.” This indicates that Sancho’s potential role as a forward is being seriously considered, especially if Rasmus Hojlund remains unavailable.
Ten Hag further elaborated on the situation, noting that Joshua Zirkzee, another new addition to the squad, has begun training but needs time to acclimate to English football and Manchester United’s playing style. Despite this, Sancho remains a viable option for the striker role. He can play both wide and as a false striker, offering versatility to the team’s attacking lineup.
The manager also mentioned Marcus Rashford, highlighting his ability to play centrally. However, ten Hag pointed out that Rashford is most effective when starting wide on the left and cutting inside. Additionally, Bruno Fernandes is considered another option for the striker position, demonstrating the team’s tactical flexibility.
This approach by Erik ten Hag underscores Manchester United’s adaptable strategy for their offensive play this season. With pre-season injuries challenging the squad, ten Hag is exploring various configurations to maintain a dynamic and effective attack. The return of seasoned players like Shaw, Mainoo, Fernandes, Garnacho, and Dalot will significantly strengthen the team as they prepare for the Community Shield and the new season.
Furthermore, Joshua Zirkzee’s integration into the team presents another potential solution for the striker role, despite his need for adjustment time. Ten Hag’s readiness to use versatile players like Sancho and Fernandes in multiple attacking positions reflects a strategic flexibility that could be crucial for Manchester United as the season unfolds. This adaptability may prove to be a key advantage in navigating the challenges and demands of the competitive football season ahead.