Manchester United legend Andy Cole has cautioned Jadon Sancho that he might face difficulties at Chelsea “unless football becomes 24-a-side.”

Sancho, the 24-year-old forward, joined Chelsea on Deadline Day on a loan deal with an obligation to buy for around £23 million. He has yet to make his debut for the Blues but could feature in their upcoming match against Bournemouth on Saturday night.

Cole, who won the Treble with Manchester United, expressed concerns about Sancho’s potential impact at Chelsea due to the team’s crowded squad. Speaking to Betfred, Cole remarked, “Manchester United spent over £70 million on Jadon three years ago, so it’s a considerable loss if it doesn’t work out.”

“Jadon is a very talented player and still only 24, so if Chelsea can tap into his potential as Borussia Dortmund did last season, it could turn out to be a fantastic deal for them,” Cole added. “There’s a lot of untapped potential in him, and if Chelsea can bring that out, it would be a great acquisition.”

However, Cole also highlighted the challenges Sancho might face, stating, “Unless football changes to 24-a-side, he will struggle just like others at Chelsea. With so many big names, only 11 players can start, so it will be interesting to see how he fits in.”

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has numerous options for the wide attacking positions, including Cole Palmer, Christopher Nkunku, Mykhailo Mudryk, Joao Felix, Pedro Neto, and Noni Madueke.

Sancho scored two goals and provided two assists in 14 Bundesliga games during his loan spell at Dortmund in the latter half of last season. Aside from that brief stint, he has been inactive since the 2022/23 campaign due to a disagreement with Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag.

Sancho, who has earned 23 caps for England, has not featured for the national team in three years.