Manchester United youngster Alejandro Garnacho is with the Argentina squad, and he is there on merit.
Throughout Alejandro Garnacho‘s call-ups to Argentina in 2023, there was a tinge of suspicion around his presence. Argentina needed to cap him three times to lock up his future, and prevent him changing his mind to Spain.
And then, as soon as he had made his three appearances, he was dropped for the November internationals. Was he just not ready for a regular place?
Well, Garnacho’s form has been terrific since, beginning with that overhead kick goal later that month. Six of the seven goals he has scored this season have come between the November and March international breaks. He has also been super-reliable, the only Manchester United player to make every matchday squad in 2023/24.
Now on course for his fourth and possibly fifth caps in the upcoming games, Garnacho is truly deserving of his selection, and there can be no suspicion of ulterior motives.
Mario Kempes praises Alejandro Garnacho
Alejandro Garnacho is a much-discussed player in Argentina, with fans excited by his progress, as they look for the next superstar, albeit recognising that finding another Lionel Messi is nigh on impossible.
Garnacho and Messi could play together at the Copa America this summer, with the core of their 2022 World Cup winning side very much the same, with a few new additions, including the Manchester United whizkid.
1978 World Cup winning striker Mario Kempes has been paying attention to Garnacho’s progress, and believes the Manchester United forward has really added to his game in recent months.
Speaking to TNT Sports, Kempes said: “He is a much more important player for Manchester than he was a few months ago. He is another of the possible solutions that the Argentine coach can find for the National Team.
“He’s beginning to understand his role in the team more, much more sacrificed.”
No Garnacho and Messi this time
There will be no Alejandro Garnacho and Lionel Messi link up during this international break.
This is because Lionel Messi has had to pull out of the squads to face El Salvador and Costa Rica due to injury. It’s particularly unfortunate for fans, because the games are being held in the USA, where he plays for Inter Miami.
Messi’s absence does provide a hope for newer stars to step up. Including Alejandro Garnacho, where he can raise his profile and really show that he belongs.
Kempes did have one word of warning after watching Garnacho train, just urging him to relax a little.
“Today it is seen that he has calmed down,” he added, thankfully.
Lisandro Martinez is also at the international camp, although won’t be playing. He’s partly there for the vibes, while continuing his rehabilitation from injury.