Aston Villa’s Jadon Sancho Possesses Golden Ball Potential, Says Former Dortmund Coach Edin Terzić
BIRMINGHAM, UK – Aston Villa forward Jadon Sancho retains teh potential to win the Ballon d’Or, according to Edin Terzić, the coach who previously oversaw Sancho’s breakout years at Borussia Dortmund. Terzić, speaking to The Telegraph, placed Sancho in a tier of remarkable talent alongside Erling Haaland and Jude Bellingham, all of whom he believes capable of claiming football’s highest individual honor.
While Haaland’s hunger and Bellingham’s all-around dedication are key to their potential success, Terzić believes Sancho’s path to the Golden Ball hinges on maintaining a positive mindset. “The difference is that Erling will reach this level if he remains hungry; Jadon will only reach this level if he continues to smile; and Jude must do both,” Terzić explained. He further drew a parallel to Ousmane Dembélé, suggesting Sancho possessed a similar level of raw talent five years prior.
Sancho, 24, is currently attempting to reignite his career at Aston Villa after a turbulent period following three prolific seasons at Dortmund (50 goals, 64 assists). His move to Villa followed unsuccessful stints back at Manchester United and a brief return to Dortmund in 2023-2024, before a loan spell at Chelsea (2024-2025).He has featured in just three games for Aston Villa since joining the club this summer.
Terzić’s comments underscore the high expectations that once surrounded Sancho, and highlight the mental fortitude required to unlock his full potential. The England international’s performance at Villa will be closely watched as he seeks to recapture the form that once marked him as one of Europe’s most exciting young talents.
