'Jadon was not on trial with the club' - Flixton dismiss Sancho talk

Former England winger Jadon Sancho signing for non-league Flixton just months after being released by Manchester United sounds like the start of an April Fool's post.

But when he was spotted training at the North West Counties club, speculation began to circulate on social media that something - unlikely though it may seem - may be bubbling.

Flixton felt the need to set the record straight, putting out a statement to play down the links with Sancho, who cost United £73m in 2021.

"To clarify, Jadon was not on trial with the club and was not involved in any transfer discussions," Flixton wrote in a statement on Instagram. , external

"He simply used our facilities for a private training session to maintain his fitness while preparing for the next chapter of his career."

Sancho, 26, is a free agent after being released by United when his contract expired in June.

After falling out with then United manager Erik ten Hag three years ago, he had loan spells with Borussia Dortmund, Chelsea and Aston Villa, but returned each time.

Sancho, who scored in Chelsea's Europa Conference League final victory in 2025 and was part of Villa's Europa League-winning squad last season, was praised by Flixton as "nothing but professional, humble, and generous with his time".

They added: "After completing his session, he happily met with young supporters, posed for photos, signed autographs, and left a lasting impression on everyone who had the pleasure of meeting him.

"Jadon is a world-class footballer who has achieved more in the game than most players could ever dream of.

"He deserves respect both his accomplishments and the way he conducted himself during his visit, not the unwarranted criticism that has followed."

Sancho, who was a youth player at Manchester City before signing for Dortmund in 2017, thanked the club in a video with Flixton manager Alex Mortimer.

"You've got a nice layout, I must say," said Sancho on his first visit to the area, adding with a smile: "It's the first time I've seen a nice pitch - apart from United and City."