Man Utd insiders’ private view of Garnacho speaks volumes of Ten Hag favourite

Alejandro Garnacho has been one of the brightest sparks of Manchester United’s first season under Erik ten Hag, with the Argentine dazzling supporters with his ability after breaking into the first team. He put lingering doubts over his future aside by signing a new long-term contract to remain at Old Trafford, with many expecting big things from the teenager next year.

Ten Hag has often used Garnacho off the bench against tired defences, as his pace and trickery has been able to get the better of teams late in the game. The 18-year-old went on to make 34 appearances in all competitions, scoring five times and becoming a key figure under the Dutch boss who clearly rates Garnacho.

Ten Hag’s feeling is matched by those at the club, with Give Me Sport reporting that United insiders have said ‘excitement’ at the Argentine’s potential under the head coach’s tutelage is ‘huge’ and Garnacho will continue his progress next season regardless of attacking additions that are made, with Mason Mount and a marquee striker eyed before the end of the summer.

That was a promise said to be made to Garnacho and his advisors when negotiating the new contract, as he pledged his future to the club until 2028. One downside to his season was the ankle injury that kept him sidelined for two months, but after scoring on his return to the team Ten Hag made sure to highlight the teenager for praise.

“Garna scored a great goal and he did almost everything good – that will give him belief,” Ten Hag said after the 2-0 win over Wolves last month. “That’s good for us for the rest of the season. He is back and he can have an impact, and that will give him confidence.

“One of the aspects of the biggest talents is, first, they take responsibility and, second, they are mature. They have the skills and the belief that they can dominate opponents and once again he did it. He has a big impact in many games, either when starting or coming on.