How Ronaldo unknowingly played a role in Sancho’s problems

Recent reports seem to have brought to light behind the scenes role Cristiano Ronaldo may have played over at Manchester United that might have potentially played a role in Jadon Sancho’s game play.

According to the report, it is alleged Ronaldo had lobbied for a tactical adjustment that could have resulted in Jadon Sancho being dropped from the starting lineup.

This revelation comes amidst speculation surrounding Sancho’s omission from the matchday squad during United’s 3-1 defeat against Arsenal, a decision attributed to his training performances by manager Erik ten Hag.

According to the Daily Star, Ten Hag and Sancho engaged in private chat this week, though a conclusive resolution was not reached.

As a result, it appears increasingly likely that the 23-year-old England winger may depart Old Trafford in the January transfer window, with Saudi Pro League clubs reportedly expressing interest in his services.

A fresh report has now emerged concerning Sancho’s tenure alongside Cristiano Ronaldo at Manchester United between the summer of 2021 and November 2022.

During a significant part of interim manager Ralf Rangnick’s tenure in Sancho’s debut season, the team employed a 4-3-3 formation that featured Sancho on the right wing when he started.

However, The Athletic has disclosed that Ronaldo advocated for a change in the team’s style.

Ronaldo purportedly requested the adoption of a different formation and tactic altogether, one that would involve playing with two center forwards.

Consequently, this tactical shift could have seen Sancho either excluded from the starting lineup or potentially deployed in a less familiar role up front.

The report goes on to reveal that Rangnick had reservations about implementing Ronaldo’s request.

This hesitance stemmed from the fact that Sancho had demonstrated his goal-scoring prowess from the right-wing position, netting two goals in his last three games at the time.

Additionally, concerns arose regarding shirt numbers. Sancho had been promised the coveted number seven shirt, but it was ultimately assigned to Edinson Cavani.

However, it was not long after before the number 7 shirt was ditched by Cavani for Manchester United legend, Cristiano Ronaldo who made a surprise return to Old Trafford that summer.

Edinson Cavani’s tenure with the number seven shirt was brief, with the Uruguayan featuring in just one Premier League game before being released at the end of his contract.