Jadon Sancho reveals glowing Aston Villa reference from Marcus Rashford with Man Utd loanee 'really inspired' by Unai Emery's plan for the season

Before putting pen to paper, Sancho turned to a familiar face for advice – his United team-mate and close friend Rashford. The England international, who spent the second half of last season on loan at Villa after clashing with Ruben Amorim, spoke glowingly of the club and the atmosphere within the dressing room. That endorsement proved decisive, cementing Villa as the perfect destination for the winger’s career reset.

Speaking to Villa TV, Sancho revealed: "I spoke to [Rashford] while he was here last season and I know he really enjoyed it. He said so many lovely things about the club, like how it’s a family and you feel that friendly environment with great players and staff. I definitely felt that as I came in."

If Rashford’s recommendation planted the seed, Emery’s masterplan made it grow as Sancho admitted that he was captivated by the Spaniard’s ambitious vision for the season ahead.

"When I spoke to the manager, he gave me belief and confidence," he said. "He showed me the plan of what they want to achieve this year and it really inspired me. He definitely persuaded me, and I can’t wait to work under him."

Sancho insisted that his goals are secondary to the team’s ambitions, vowing to put Villa’s success ahead of personal accolades.

 "As a player and especially as a team, we have to be achieving big things. We have to be looking towards that, and hopefully I can help the team to achieve some of those goals," he added. "The team comes first, so whenever the manager needs me I’ll be ready. I’ve got individual goals, but my main goal is for the team. Achieving something as a team is much more special than individually. I feel like all players have individual goals, but the team always comes first. ’ll be looking to achieve goals with the team first."

The agreement, finalised on deadline day, sees Villa cover 80 per cent of Sancho’s salary, while United also pocketed a loan fee. Notably, the arrangement does not include an option to buy, meaning Sancho is expected to return to Old Trafford next summer.

Having struggled for consistency at United and found little joy at Chelsea, Sancho sees Villa as the place where he can rediscover the sparkle that once made him one of Europe’s most exciting young forwards. His potential debut is circled in the calendar for September 13 against Everton on Merseyside.