Jadon Sancho (right) enjoyed his Chelsea debut on Saturday night (Picture: Getty Images)
Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca says Jadon Sancho ‘needs love’ in a pointed response to his treatment at Manchester United.
Sancho made his Blues debut on Saturday night, coming off the bench at half-time and winning Player of the Match in the 1-0 win at Bournemouth.
The incredible strength of Chelsea’s squad was on show as Joao Felix and Christopher Nkunku also came on as substitutes, with the latter scoring the only goal of the game.
It was an encouraging start to his loan spell at Chelsea for Sancho after a pretty disastrous spell at Manchester United.
After falling out with manager Erik ten Hag, Sancho was sent on loan to Borussia Dortmund for the second half of last season and, despite seemingly rebuilding their relationship, is out on loan again.
Maresca has been impressed with what he has seen from the England international so far at Chelsea and says it is love the 24-year-old needs to succeed.
‘Jadon was good, Joao [Felix] was good, Tosin [Adarabioyo] was good & Christo [Nkunku] was very good, we decided to use Christo as a number nine as he is good in the box,’ the Italian told a post-match press conference.
‘I have the feeling Jadon needs love.’
Enzo Maresca brought Sancho on at half-time against Bournemouth (Picture: Getty Images)
Sancho himself was delighted to be on the pitch in a Chelsea shirt and to help his new side pick up their second win in four Premier League games.
‘It’s amazing to make my debut for Chelsea, just being back playing, I’m very grateful,’ he said.
‘The team played very well, we dug into the end and got the three points. I’ve been working hard for this moment and I’m happy I got my chance.
‘I had a great end to last season, being in the Champions League season. Going into this season, I wanted to have a good start and I’m happy.
‘I have to say thank you to the staff and team-mates. The first day I came in, they made me feel welcome and I’m so happy to feel this comfortable.’
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