John Barnes: Sancho Leaving Manchester United Is A Fantastic Move
Last Updated on January 11, 2024
By Jacob Potter 
This week, we had the privilege of sitting down with former Liverpool winger and Anfield legend, John Barnes. Barnes, who has previously expressed his admiration for Manchester United winger Jadon Sancho, shared his thoughts on Sancho’s recent move back to Borussia Dortmund, describing it as a fantastic move. Additionally, Barnes elaborated on his profound impression of academy graduate Kobbie Mainoo.
In this article:
- Sancho leaving Manchester United is a fantastic move
- Mainoo has been a breath of fresh air for Manchester United
Sancho Leaving Manchester United Is A Fantastic Move
In the meantime, Jadon Sancho has successfully secured a loan move back to his former club, Borussia Dortmund. The question arises: is this the ideal move for all parties involved? Sancho’s absence from the Manchester United lineup since August 26, following a falling-out with manager Erik ten Hag, and his subsequent training away from the first team since September, raised concerns about his future at the club. It’s worth noting that the loan agreement does not include an option to buy.
In light of these circumstances, John Barnes expresses his satisfaction with the England international’s decision to return to his former club, Borussia Dortmund. The move offers hope for Sancho to reignite his career and potentially find a fresh start in familiar surroundings.
“It’s about him being happy and that’s where he’s had his happiest time playing football.
“He’ll go there and be loved and supported. I’ve always said young English players will always benefit from going to Germany. Going back to Germany gives him a bit of a reset to build his confidence up.
“It’s a fantastic move for everyone involved.”
Sancho is priced at 6/1 on Sky Bet to be included in Gareth Southgate’s Euro 2024 squad, although it seems a tough ask for the winger to be included ahead of the likes of Ollie Watkins and Marcus Rashford at this moment in time.
Be sure to take advantage of the Sky Bet sign-up offer if you haven’t done so already, as they have an eye-catching welcome bonus available for their new customers, as well as being one of the best betting sites in the business.
Mainoo Has Been A Breath Of Fresh Air For Manchester United
Manchester United’s rising star, Kobbie Mainoo, has made a significant impact this season, accumulating a total of nine first-team appearances. This campaign can be rightly described as a breakthrough season for the highly talented midfielder, who has long been admired by the club’s academy.
Mainoo’s journey to prominence caught the attention of manager Erik ten Hag last season, and he was a prominent figure during the club’s preseason preparations. Unfortunately, an injury setback kept him sidelined until November. However, since his return, Mainoo has become a vital presence in the heart of the Manchester United midfield.
His exceptional composure on the ball and remarkable passing ability have addressed a notable deficiency in the team’s midfield. Barnes, among others, has been deeply impressed by the way Mainoo swiftly established himself as one of the key players in the squad following his return from injury.
“He is very mature. Very mature. Talk about a No. 6, a defensive midfielder who drives forward, tackles and wins the ball. He’s been one of the shining lights for Man Utd.
“Mainoo and Garnacho have been the shining lights for Man Utd under difficult circumstances. It’s difficult for young players to come into a team that’s not doing well but his game is about getting stuck in, effort and commitment and if you do that in a team that’s struggling you will shine.
“He’s been great in front of the back four, screening, passing the ball forwards and driving forwards with the ball. He’s been a breath of fresh air for Manchester United.”
