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Although Garnacho only celebrated his 18th birthday at the start of last month, he was the name supporters were most excited about towards the end of the season. The success of United’s academy was a much-needed distraction in a disaster campaign.
Garnacho started against Rayo Vallecano on Sunday and it was the first glimpse supporters have had of the Argentina international since he played in the FA Youth Cup final in May. Garnacho played like Old Trafford was his backyard with endearing naivety that night.
He also paid tribute to Ronaldo in that final by copying his trademark celebration. Garnacho has already trained with Ronaldo and Lionel Messi in his short career and he couldn’t be receiving a better education than what he’s currently getting at United.
He also paid tribute to Ronaldo in that final by copying his trademark celebration. Garnacho has already trained with Ronaldo and Lionel Messi in his short career and he couldn’t be receiving a better education than what he’s currently getting at United.
There was a strong crowd at Old Trafford for the FA Youth Cup final, but there was an even larger attendance for the Vallecano game at the weekend and Garnacho remained unfazed by the occasion. Garnacho was excitable on the ball from the first whistle but he looked comfortable against players much his senior. He also looked like the player most likely to create something for United.
Rayo Vallecano almost scored within the first 10 seconds of the match and that set the tone for the opening stages. The game was frantic and neither side had control of the fixture, which suited Garnacho, who only wanted to drive the ball forward.
Garnacho immediately caught the eye with his intent. His pace is a genuine asset and he caused problems for Vallecano’s defence with his unpredictability, although he was struggling to pick the right pass in the final third, which Vallecano appreciated.
After settling into the game, Garnacho’s decision-making gradually improved, but that is perhaps the weakest part of his game and that is to be expected at this stage of his career. Garnacho is clearly a diamond, his game just needs to be polished.
While Garnacho would have been disappointed not to make a single appearance on United’s tour, he should take comfort from making such an impression when given the chance against Vallecano. He’s waited all summer for an opportunity and he took it.
Garnacho trained with the first-team last season and he made his debut against Chelsea in April. There have been calls to see more of him this summer, but his development should not be rushed. His talent is raw and United need to exercise patience with it.
It would advisable for Garnacho to spend a season with United’s U23s, which would also give him the chance to play for the first-team in cup competitions when called upon. Garnacho needs to physically develop before he can regularly play senior football.
When the electronic scoreboard was raised in the 70th minute for Garnacho, he left the pitch to rapturous applause from supporters and the noise was close to the level that Ronaldo received when entering the field to warm-up ahead of kick-off.
