Manchester United winger Alejandro Garnacho was one of the team’s most lively players in the match with Arsenal at the weekend.
Alejandro Garnacho‘s performance, however, was not without its faults. Just like a young Cristiano Ronaldo, Garnacho’s end product proved lacking.
We have, through the season, seen Alejandro Garnacho be far more effective than he was against the Gunners. This was the display of a tired, yet talented player.
Garnacho is the only Manchester United player to be named in every single matchday squad this season.
Alejandro Garnacho minutes in 2023/24 vs 2022/23
Alejandro Garnacho came into this season looking to establish himself as a regular starter, rather than simply being utilised as an impact substitute.
Mission accomplished. Alejandro Garnacho has been a regular, whether Marcus Rashford starts or not, as he has proved just as impactful by switching out to the right flank.
As a result, Garnacho has seen his playing time explode, far beyond his very limited minutes last season.
Alejandro Garnacho’s minutes have almost trebled this season. It is a sign of his progress and growing importance, yet it is also a double-edged sword.
When the team is winning, it’s easy to ride the wave and play every possible minute. When the form is wildly inconsistent and struggling for goals, it becomes very difficult.
Garnacho is part of an attack which has not been clicking, and as a result, he has been trying to force the issue.
We saw this against Arsenal, especially late in the game when he fired in a speculative, but tame shot, rather than try and pick out a teammate with a pass.
Amad can provide part of the solution
Alejandro Garnacho has made excellent progress this season, but these increased minutes are taking their toll on him.
Manchester United need to do what is best for Garnacho, and for the team, and this can come through increased competition.
Antony has failed to prove good enough to hold down a regular spot, but there is a ray of hope coming with Amad stepping up at the weekend.
Erik ten Hag said he was impressed with Amad’s performance, and the Ivorian can hopefully start to threaten for a spot. Add in Marcus Rashford‘s return, and Bruno Fernandes, and United will become a little less reliant on Garnacho to provide a spark.