Why was Sancho absent from Manchester United’s match against Fulham?

Jadon Sancho’s absence from Manchester United’s squad for their Premier League match against Fulham raised many eyebrows, with some speculating that it was a sign of his impending departure from Old Trafford before the end of the transfer window.

United won the Premier League opener 1-0 against Fulham at Old Trafford, and after the match, manager Erik ten Hag, known for his strained relationship with Sancho, was asked about the English winger’s absence.

The Dutchman replied, “Jadon has had an ear infection for the past week and it was clear to me that he was not 100% fit.”

He added, “Although he could have played in the Fulham game, I also had other options available and I had to make a decision, so I preferred to rely on other players.”

He concluded, “I can only select 20 players for the matchday squad, and I am the one who makes the final decision. Of course, Sancho can play in the next game; we rely on a rotation policy.”

Ten Hag’s relationship with Sancho has been strained since their fallout last season, which led to the player’s loan move to Borussia Dortmund, before returning at the start of this season.

The England international has attracted interest from several clubs in recent days, with Paris Saint-Germain leading the way and Chelsea recently said to have joined the race for his signature.