There’s growing chatter at Old Trafford that Alejandro Garnacho, once hailed as unsellable at Manchester United, may be nearing the end of his United chapter. Recent incidents have sparked serious concerns among the coaching staff, and the latest reports hint that manager Ruben Amorim is ready to have a frank talk with the Argentine international if things don’t improve.
A Troubled Relationship
Garnacho has been in the news again for all the wrong reasons. During the match against Ipswich Town, the winger was substituted early after Dorgu saw a straight red card. Despite a good start, Garnacho was selected to sacrifice his place for Mazraoui just before half time. The Argentine international went straight to the dressing room after an apparent gesture to change the shirt. However, it was quickly picked by the media and was interpreted as a sign of frustration. Amorim, when questioned about the issue, stated, “I’m going to talk with Garnacho about that.” Amorim continued, “You are making a connection with Rashford. It was cold and wet,” referring to the walk away to change his shirt as seen in different fan footages too. However, Garnacho’s recent behaviour hasn’t fared well with the manager and as per Fichajes has reportedly ‘caused problems in the dressing room’.
Garnacho is having a mixed season, once hyped as unsellable following his impressive debut in 2022 and a subsequent new contract, Garnacho has seen a significant dip in his form. With just three goals and one assist in 26 Premier League appearances, his numbers have fallen short of expectations. Rumours have swirled in recent weeks about his relationship with the coaching staff deteriorating, a situation that might force the club to consider offers for him this summer.
What’s Next?
During the summers, Garnacho was on a hot transfer list. Both Chelsea and Napoli were interested in the winger, but United were firm on their valuation of the winger. Despite an enduring transfer window, Garnacho stayed at the club and since then has been eased into the team. Fans do believe that Garnacho is the future of the club and has immense potential to be a long-term stay at the club, but while his talent is undeniable, the question remains whether he has the mental resilience and willingness to adapt to Amorim’s system.
Manchester United are in a very difficult position this season as they sit in 14th place amid a series of poor results. With pressure mounting from fans and the board alike for Amorim, his off the field dealings will be in the spotlight as he has already off-loaded Rashford to Aston Villa for similar attitude and lack of commitment issues. Although Garnacho is a big talent, Amorim will be sceptical of dealing with another off-field issue as the club goes through a difficult time on the pitch. United’s current mess, compounded by injuries and a lack of firepower, means that every player’s attitude counts. For Garnacho to stay at the club, he needs to show more.