Borussia Dortmund’s loan sensation Jadon Sancho has opened up about a lingering regret as he gears up for the Champions League final.
Sancho’s 2023/24 campaign has been dramatic, beginning with Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag sidelining him after a highly publicized dispute.
His fortunes changed when Dortmund secured his return to the Bundesliga on loan in January, sparking a resurgence in his form. Despite his current success, Sancho remains haunted by the memory of England’s Euro 2021 final defeat to Italy.
On the hurt of losing the Euro final in 2021, Sancho said to The Mirror: “It was hard. The backlash wasn’t nice. Being in London, not in a million years would I have thought we would receive that. It’s a memory I try to block but I just have to be positive.
“Its football for you. People say things in the moment I am sure they don’t mean. But they have to realise that when they say those things it does impact us. After that it was the summer break and that summer was hard. Just reflecting: ‘Why did it have to be me?’
“It felt as though we’d let our country down. I know we didn’t but that’s how it felt in the moment. Of course I saw the love. And we do appreciate it – speaking on behalf of Bukayo and Marcus. But it is still something in my head sometimes. I don’t think I have fully recovered yet but I’m trying my best.
“If you think about it, after that, the only other penalty I took was against Brighton at Wembley (for Manchester United) and I did score.
Its one of those moments when you believe in yourself. I’ve been taking penalties for a long time and I just practice and practice to get more confidence.
“I’ve never really doubted myself to take a penalty so I’d definitely be ready to take a penalty if it came up. It’s going to be a great day and a great occasion for my family.”
Sancho also reflected on the current season and the journey he’s been on, becoming a crucial player for Edin Terzic. His contributions have helped Die Schwarzgelben reach the Champions League final for the first time since 2011.
“I don’t think anyone would have expected this. Me being in a Champions League Final. I’m so happy. I’m blessed.
“Game by game I’ve just been working on myself, trying to be a better player. Doing extras behind closed doors.
Everything I do is for the team and I’m thankful to them – and the staff – for welcoming me back.
“I can’t thank my mum and dad enough. Also my siblings. I know what my mum will say.
She’ll be like: ‘Win or lose, I still love you son!’ My dad will probably be messaging my phone now saying: ‘Are you training??’ But regardless, my whole family will be proud of me.”
The England winger will now be in action for the last time this season when Dortmund take on Real Madrid in the Champions League final in his home city at Wembley Stadium on June 1.Dortund