Jadon Sancho has revealed Didier Drogba and Frank Lampard were his “idols growing up” after completing a loan move to Chelsea from Man Utd.
Sancho has not featured in Manchester United’s first two Premier League games despite a strong performance in pre-season after returning from loan at Borussia Dortmund.
The England international has been heavily linked with a number of high-profile transfers throughout the summer, including Juventus, Bayern Munich and another return to Dortmund.
Ultimately, it was Chelsea who won the race for his signature, completing a deal just in time before the summer transfer window closed.
Sancho cites Chelsea legends Drogba and Lampard as his ‘idols’
LONDON, ENGLAND – MARCH 1: Frank Lampard of Chelsea celebrates his penalty with Didier Drogba during the Barclays Premier League match between Chelsea and Manchester United at Stamford Bridge on March 1, 2011 in London, England. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)
Speaking to Chelsea’s official website after his move to Stamford Bridge was confirmed, Sancho named Blues legends Drogba and Lampard as his biggest inspirations as a youngster.
Between them, Drogba and Lampard have scored 375 goals and provided 212 assists in 1,029 combined appearances for Chelsea, playing a key role in the club’s most successful periods – during which they have won multiple Premier League titles and domestic cups, as well as the Champions League and Europa League.
Now, Sancho will do his best to emulate this iconic duo.
“I’m really excited to be here,” Sancho said. “London is where I grew up and I’m happy to be back.
“It was a bit crazy. Obviously it was the last day of the transfer window so you expect it to be a bit crazy, but I’m really happy that it’s finally over.
“Chelsea are an icon. My idols when I was younger were Didier Drogba and Frank Lampard and now I have the opportunity to play for this club like them. It’s a great feeling.”
Sancho: Enzo Maresca lured me to Chelsea
Sancho also revealed it was a phone call with Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca – coupled with the Italian’s exploits alongside Pep Guardiola at Manchester City – that convinced him Stamford Bridge was the right step for his career.
“I think it was the manager who really attracted me to the project,” says Sancho.
“I knew him from his time with Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. He spoke to me on the phone about this project and what he was building here. For a young player like me, it’s exciting and I can’t wait to get started.”
The forward continued: “They sign me for a reason and to contribute to the team, and I’m ready to do that.
“I like his style of play. When the wingers have the ball, he likes them to play one-on-one and be direct. We play a lot of one-twos with the 10 and combination plays with the forwards. It’s very attractive and it’s a style that I play.”
