Jadon Sancho is facing time off due to a shoulder injury sustained during his loan at Aston Villa.
The injury happened in a closed friendly match against Elche in late March.
The winger landed awkwardly and was taken out before half-time.
Medical scans revealed a joint issue but confirmed it was not a dislocation.
According to The Athletic, Sancho is expected to be out for at least two to three weeks, with daily assessments of his recovery.
This absence comes at a critical time in the season.
Sancho will miss both legs of Aston Villa’s UEFA Europa League quarter-final and league matches against Nottingham Forest and Sunderland.
A longer recovery could also prevent him from playing against Fulham and Tottenham Hotspur, and possibly the semi-finals if Villa advances.
Unai Emery’s team is firmly in the race for Champions League qualification.
Sancho, on loan from Manchester United, has appeared in 31 matches this season.
He has scored once and provided three assists for Aston Villa since joining in the summer.
Despite limited output, his movement and playmaking ability have added balance to Villa’s attack.
His absence takes away a valuable tactical option.
There are broader implications as well.
Sancho is set to become a free agent this summer.
Borussia Dortmund has expressed interest in a possible return, and the player is reported to be willing to lower his wage demands.
A strong end to the season could have improved his market value.
Clubs may now be more cautious in their approach due to his injury.
His fitness will be crucial for any potential moves.
Aston Villa’s focus remains on getting results.
For Sancho, recovery is the priority as he looks ahead to a significant summer.