Champions League: How Jadon Sancho Could Cost Manchester United UCL Spot Next Season

• Manchester United are eyeing a spot in the Champions League next season
• However, their chances of qualifying could be impacted by Jadon Sancho
• Sancho is currently on loan with Dortmund, having rejoined them in January

Jadon Sancho could deny Manchester United the opportunity to make an appearance in the Champions League next season.

United have endured a frustrating run of form this term that could see them end the season without a trophy.

Erik ten Hag's charges are already out of the Champions League and recently lost their bid to defend the Carabao Cup.

Their only hope to win silverware is the FA Cup, with a pursuit of a Champions League spot also on the cards.

Orlando Pirates on quest to beat DStv Premiership rivals to CAF Champions League qualification

Football

However, sealing a top-four finish is proving to be a daunting task for the Red Devils, who currently sit sixth in the standings with 47 points.

There are a massive eight points separating them and fourth-placed Aston Villa, with Tottenham Hotspur also sitting in between.

How Sancho could cost Man United CL spot

According to SPORTbible, under the current Champions League format, only the top four teams from the Premier League can play in the competition.

However, once the new format takes effect next season, two more teams can qualify for the European edition.

As such, depending on how English teams fair in European competitions, a team that finishes fifth in the standings will seal qualification.

While United are one of the favourites to clinch fifth place, Sancho's heroics for Borussia Dortmund could hamper the English giants' chances.

The winger, who is currently on loan at the German club scored a sublime goal against PSV to send Dortmund to the quarterfinals.

How Man Utd Fared in Season After Treble Win as Man City Look to Win It All Again in 2024

Football

Sancho's contribution only strengthens Germany's position in second place per the European coefficient, with the country now sitting ahead of England in the ranking.

As it stands, United will have to rely on the likes of Manchester City, Liverpool, and Arsenal to help them secure a Champions League spot next season - if they themselves finish fifth in the league.

When Sancho missed an open goal

Earlier, Sports Brief reported on how Sancho missed a sitter on February 10 during Dortmund’s game against Freiburg.

His side was leading 3-0 at the time, and he could easily have added to the scoreline, but his effort from a cross from Julian Brandt went harmlessly into the goalkeeper’s hands.