Borussia Dortmund could run the risk of losing their hefty valuation for Jadon Sancho if they don’t cash in on him this summer.
Jadon Sancho has become the darling of the Bundesliga watchers following an extraordinary breakout season that saw him become one of most sought-after attackers in Europe. The ex-Manchester City star, who joined Borussia Dortmund in the summer of 2017, was involved in 29 league goals last term – more than teammate and club captain Marco Reus.
Sancho’s services from the flanks helped Dortmund pose a strong challenge for the Bundesliga title last season, with the Black and Yellows missing out by just two points in the end. And subsequently, the England international has been linked with a return to his homeland this summer, with Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer keen on securing his services.
However, Dortmund have remained adamant in keeping hold of their prized asset and are keen not to repeat the case of Ousmane Dembele, who joined Barcelona just after one season at the Signal Iduna Park. But, considering the way the Frenchman has struggled following his move to Camp Nou, should the Bundesliga giants explore the idea of cashing in on Sancho as well?
One could be forgiven to think that the 19-year-old could, in fact, turn out to be a one season wonder, in which case, Dortmund could lose significant valuation of their star player. The likes of Sergej Milinkovic-Savic or Nabil Fekir can be used as prime examples where both Lazio and Lyon have had to lower their asking price after initially keeping hold of these star players following their excellent performances in the 2017-18 campaign.
Where will Sancho fit in at Borussia Dortmund next season?
Borussia Dortmund have added some significant depth in the attacking department by securing the services of Julian Brandt and Thorgan Hazard this summer. This is coupled with Marius Wolf’s remarkable form in the pre-season friendlies.
However, it seems Sancho and Reus are guaranteed starters, with the former occupying the right flank while Reus will operate in his preferred number ten role. This leaves Brandt and Raphael Guerreiro as well as Hazard competing for the left wing slot, although the Belgian can also be utilised as a makeshift centre forward, while Brandt can operate in midfield as well.
But, any drop in consistency from Sancho’s performances will allow these attackers to occupy his right wing slot. But, at the same time, the England international’s trickery on the ball, coupled with his dangerous crosses will bring an X-factor to the Borussia Dortmund attack. And this could be crucial, especially against teams that employ a deep defensive block.
Will Sancho become a one season wonder?
In the current team, two players that are eligible for qualifying as a one season wonder by the end of next season are Sancho and star striker Paco Alcacer. Christian Pulisic can somewhat be deemed as a one season wonder considering how the USMNT star struggled to perform last season, his lack of opportunities in the first-team notwithstanding.
It is hard to judge as to whether or not Sancho will come out as a one season wonder next season. But, Dortmund, in general, do not produce many one season wonders and this is largely due to their proficiency of nurturing young talents and utilising their qualities to the fullest.
Similarly, Sancho’s dribbling prowess and his overall mobility and dynamism will be integral to Dortmund’s attack next season, especially with Pulisic gone. And given the youngster’s seemingly telepathic combination with the likes of Reus and Alcacer, it is unlikely he will struggle to replicate his performances in the Bundesliga next season.
Verdict
Borussia Dortmund have shown tremendous ambition this summer and are hell bent on dethroning Bayern Munich as the German champions next season. Sancho, in that regard, will be central to their hopes to clinching the Bundesliga title.
Besides, the Ruhrpott giants have already sold Pulisic, Abdou Diallo and Alexander Isak so far this summer. Hence, they should definitely keep hold of the England international as coach Lucien Favre prepares his side to retain their momentum from last season and come out all guns blazing in this new one.
