United attacker sparks injury fears after worrying incident in friendly for loan club

Manchester United loanee Jadon Sancho has sparked injury concerns after what happened in Aston Villa’s friendly against Spanish outfit Elche. Uncertain future Sancho is set to become a free agent at the end of the season, once his United contract expires. Though United have the option to extend his contract by a further 12 months, they’ve decided against it. As a result, they are expected to release him outright rather than keep him for another year or try to generate a fee from his exit. The England international has not set the world alight at Villa. He has made 19 Premier League appearances this term, contributing only two assists in that period. He has primarily been used from the bench by Unai Emery. Sancho’s only goal for Villa came in the Europa League meeting with Turkish outfit Fenerbahce. There have been rumours that Villa are open to signing him permanently. A report covered by The Peoples Person also relayed that Borussia Dortmund are eyeing another reunion, although it is likely Sancho will have to reduce his salary demands. The 26-year-old started for Villa in their friendly with Elche on Friday. Jadon Sancho en @PinatarArena. pic.twitter.com/X0Ut4GCBAg — Germán R. Abril (@gerebit0) March 27, 2026 Sancho injury fears The United loanee was however dealt a massive setback as he was forced off the pitch with a shoulder injury before half-time. Sancho fell awkwardly after a challenge from five minutes before the break, sparking immediate concern. He was tended to by medical staff but appeared to be in visible discomfort. It then became crystal clear that he could not carry on, prompting Emery to replace him with Ollie Watkins. Sancho’s shoulder was placed in a makeshift sling following the incident. Villa will now assess the injury further, with an update on his fitness expected soon. Hopefully, it’s nothing serious and he makes a timely return to action. Featured image Eddie Keogh via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Latest Top Stories… Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!