Why Manchester United are Reportedly Urged to Sanction Alejandro Garnacho's

Manchester United find themselves at a curious crossroads regarding the future of one of their most exciting young talents, Alejandro Garnacho. Despite his commendable on-field contributions last season, the Argentina international is reportedly on the chopping block, with various factors, both on and off the pitch, contributing to a growing sentiment that the club should offload him. This comes amidst a significant managerial change with Ruben Amorim now at the helm, and a broader strategic shift within the club's recruitment.
Garnacho, a product of United's esteemed academy, burst onto the scene in the 2022/23 season, showcasing flashes of brilliance with his electrifying pace, audacious dribbling, and penchant for spectacular goals. The 2024/25 season saw him further cement his place, contributing 11 goals and 10 assists across all competitions, a respectable return for a player of his age. He famously scored the Premier League Goal of the Season against Everton and netted the opener in the FA Cup final victory over Manchester City, demonstrating his ability to deliver in big moments. Tactically, under previous management, he had shown versatility, excelling on the right wing, where his ability to cut inside and shoot, or take on defenders, added a new dimension to United's attack. His high shot volume and touches in the opponent's penalty area consistently put him in dangerous positions.
However, beneath the surface of these impressive statistics, a series of issues have seemingly led to a breakdown in his relationship with the club, particularly with new head coach Ruben Amorim.
The Rift with Ruben Amorim:
The most immediate and pressing reason for Garnacho's potential departure appears to be a significant bust-up with Ruben Amorim. Reports suggest a "fiery exchange" between the two, with Amorim reportedly telling the 20-year-old he had "better pray" he can find a club willing to sign him. This public deterioration of their relationship seems to stem from a series of events. Garnacho reportedly expressed dissatisfaction with being brought on late during United's Europa League final defeat against Tottenham Hotspur, openly speaking out against Amorim's decision. This public display of discontent, particularly from a young player, has not gone down well with the new manager, who is known for his demanding and disciplined approach. Amorim, since his arrival, has reportedly favored other players like Amad Diallo and Mason Mount over Garnacho, signaling a potential misalignment with the winger's playing style or attitude. The manager's clear desire to reshape the squad in his image means players not fully aligned with his philosophy, regardless of talent, may be deemed expendable.
Off-Field Controversies and Social Media Missteps:
Beyond the training ground and tactical disagreements, Garnacho has recently garnered headlines for controversial actions off the pitch, particularly on social media. One incident that has significantly angered Manchester United fans and reinforced the club's desire to sell him was his decision to pose in an Aston Villa shirt bearing Marcus Rashford's name. This stunt, seen as disrespectful to the club that nurtured him and to the fan base, was widely criticized. Reactions on social media ranged from "his ego is ridiculous" to calls for him to be "get him out" of the club. Critics argue that he is "flaunting a lifestyle that the club has provided for him, while also throwing shade at that club and their fans." These actions suggest a lack of maturity and professionalism that can be detrimental to team cohesion and public image, particularly for a club of Manchester United's global stature. While an undeniable talent, such behavior risks overshadowing his on-field contributions and creating an unnecessary circus around the squad.
Tactical Fit and Squad Overhaul:
From a tactical perspective, while Garnacho is undoubtedly a gifted attacker, Amorim's system might prioritize different attributes. Manchester United have already made moves in the transfer market, securing Matheus Cunha from Wolves for £62.5 million, with reports also linking them to Bryan Mbeumo of Brentford. Cunha, a summer signing, is reportedly viewed as a potential replacement for Garnacho, considered a better fit for Amorim's tactical system. This suggests that even if the personal issues were resolved, there might be a strategic decision by the new management to move on from Garnacho to acquire players more suited to their long-term vision. The club's transfer strategy under INEOS is reportedly shifting to prioritize players who genuinely want to play for Manchester United and fit a specific tactical profile, rather than simply chasing big names. Garnacho's perceived disciplinary issues and potential incompatibility with Amorim's demands could see him fall outside this new framework.
Financial Considerations and Profit & Sustainability Rules:
The financial aspect also plays a significant role. Manchester United are navigating the complexities of Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), and the sale of academy graduates like Garnacho can offer pure profit that helps the club stay compliant. While United reportedly want around £60 million for Garnacho, there's an acceptance that the public nature of his fallout with Amorim and the general knowledge that the club wants to sell him might drive the price down to a more realistic £40 million. Even at this reduced figure, it would represent a substantial profit given his status as an academy graduate, having joined the club's youth system from Atletico Madrid in 2020 as a 15-year-old. This financial leverage could be crucial for funding other incoming transfers that Amorim deems essential for his rebuild, especially with no European football next season.
Ex-Liverpool Midfielder's Perspective:
Even external voices, such as former Liverpool midfielder Danny Murphy, have weighed in, suggesting that Manchester United may indeed have to let the youngster leave. Murphy, while acknowledging Garnacho's footballing talent, highlighted the off-field issues: "If the finances are right, and United are that desperate to get rid, Garnacho's a younger talent and someone will feel they can rein him in because he's got a lot about him on the pitch. I like him football wise." This sentiment from a respected pundit outside the club further emphasizes the perceived unmanageability of Garnacho's temperament.
In conclusion, while Alejandro Garnacho undeniably possesses immense talent and has delivered some memorable moments for Manchester United, a combination of a fractured relationship with the new manager, repeated off-field controversies, a potential tactical misalignment, and the club's financial strategy are all converging to suggest that his time at Old Trafford may be drawing to a close. The decision to offload a player of his potential is a significant one, but for Manchester United, it appears to be a necessary step in the ongoing reshaping of the club under Ruben Amorim.
Source@Pulse Sports