England international Jadon Sancho recently returned to Borussia Dortmund on loan from Manchester United, and his former youth coach, Sayce Holmes-Lewis, has noted the immediate impact of his return. Sancho quickly made an impact in his first few games back in the Bundesliga, registering assists, and scoring a goal in a Champions League match against PSV Eindhoven. Holmes-Lewis, who first met Sancho when he was just a young player at Watford, emphasizes the importance of having the right support system around young footballers, and believes that Sancho’s return to Dortmund has allowed him to rediscover his love for the game.
The relationship between Sancho, Holmes-Lewis, and their mutual friend Reiss Nelson, who plays for Arsenal, highlights the importance of having trusted individuals who can provide guidance and support in the highly competitive world of professional football. Holmes-Lewis stresses the need for young players to focus on their love for the game rather than external distractions such as money, cars, or fame. He believes that returning to a supportive and nurturing environment like Dortmund has allowed Sancho to express himself on the pitch and play with joy once again.
Holmes-Lewis and Nelson, who both grew up in South London, have worked together on initiatives to support local communities and nurture young talent through football. They emphasize the importance of street football and small-sided games in developing young players with individuality, freedom of expression, and technical skills. While academies try to replicate these environments, the essence of these games cannot be easily recreated without the unique conditions that shaped players like Sancho, Nelson, and others.
As Sancho continues to impress in his second stint at Dortmund, many believe that he has already shown glimpses of the player who first burst onto the scene during his initial spell with the club. Dortmund manager Edin Terzic remains optimistic about Sancho’s potential and believes there is more to come from the talented winger. With the right support and environment, young players like Sancho have the opportunity to reach their full potential and excel on the biggest stages in football.
Holmes-Lewis offers valuable advice to the next generation of footballers, emphasizing the importance of surrounding oneself with trusted individuals who can provide honest feedback and accountability. He recalls the decision-making process that led to Sancho’s return to Dortmund and highlights the significance of playing first-team football at a young age. As young players navigate the complexities of the professional game, having a support system that prioritizes their development and well-being is crucial for their success on and off the pitch.
In conclusion, Jadon Sancho’s return to Borussia Dortmund has been a resounding success, with the winger quickly finding his form and enjoying his football once again. His former coach, Sayce Holmes-Lewis, underscores the importance of having the right support system and environment for young players to thrive in the competitive world of professional football. By focusing on their love for the game, street football roots, and nurturing talent from an early age, players like Sancho have the opportunity to reach the pinnacle of their careers and inspire future generations of footballers.
