Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca seemed to take a subtle jab at Erik ten Hag following Jadon Sancho’s impressive debut for the Blues.

Sancho, on loan from Manchester United, made a notable impact in his first match for Chelsea, coming on at halftime to assist in the 1-0 victory over Bournemouth. After the game, he posted on Instagram: “Delighted to make my @chelseafc debut, and to top it off with a win.”

In response, Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes commented: “Some player you keep that smile.” However, Fernandes’s comment has sparked a backlash from fans. Critics have urged him to delete the post, with some questioning his loyalty and others mocking his reaction, suggesting that former captain Roy Keane would have had a stronger response.

Amid the reaction, some defended Fernandes, arguing that he was simply supporting his former teammate.

Commenting on Sancho’s debut, Maresca hinted at Ten Hag’s handling of the winger. Ten Hag had previously sidelined Sancho after a public disagreement regarding his training approach. Maresca remarked, “I have a feeling that Jadon is a guy that needs love. This is what I thought when I spoke with him before he joined us. He has the desire to show the player he is, but for me, it’s just to enjoy football. They are happy and want to play football, and because they are good, they will do good things.”

Chelsea will next face West Ham, while Manchester United will travel to Crystal Palace.