S Poddar
The young Argentine youngster has been just phenomenal in reacting to being overlooked for the highly anticipated Manchester derby, which Ruben Amorim praised was a transformation and a proof that he was more than committed.
Just seven weeks ago, Garnacho, along with fellow academy graduate Marcus Rashford, was shockingly left out of Manchester United’s squad for their match against Manchester City. Though United still won the game in dramatic fashion, the exclusion of both players sparked much debate among fans and analysts.
In the meantime, Rashford’s absence has continued to dominate headlines, but Amorim was unambiguous about what he expects from his players, claiming beforehand of United’s Europa League tie against FCSB that Rashford “has to change” to reach his high standards. Meanwhile, there have also been talk of Garnacho’s long-term future, but his reaction to adversity has been worlds apart.
Instead of the setback, Garnacho bounced back with grit and determination. Garnacho, while coming from the bench, was impressive as evidenced by the assist in United’s 2-0 victory against FCSB, thereby guaranteeing United qualification to the round of 16 in the Europa League. Amorim has nothing but admiration for the youngster’s spirit with which he welcomed the test.
“Well, he changed right away after that game against City,” said Amorim, lavishing praise on Garnacho’s evolution. “The way he understands things, and understands I just want to help him, I just want to win games.”
The United manager highlighted how the 20-year-old has changed in his approach both on and off the field, showing a more mature and professional attitude. “He changed in everything: the approach when you talk with him, the way he recovers,” Amorim continued. “He understands that sometimes I’m a different coach, that I am demanding in my way and sometimes it’s hard with the first impact because it’s a different kind of coach.”
In fact, acknowledging his improvement, Amorim mentioned that everything is just down to the player himself. “He understands that it is never in a bad way, it’s always for him, but I am a different person. I think all the merit (goes to) Garnacho. He is improving and we want to continue to improve with Garnacho.”
Despite rumors of a potential exit in the January transfer window, fueled by United’s need to balance finances while planning for future reinforcements, Garnacho’s performances have only strengthened his case for staying. Similar speculation has surrounded another young talent, Kobbie Mainoo, but both players continue to prove their worth to the squad.
Homegrown talent Mainoo played a pivotal role in United’s recent wins. In an advanced role for the match against FCSB, the 19-year-old delivered a man-of-the-match performance, scoring once and assisting another goal. Amorim has said that Mainoo plays better in an attacking position as he has less defensive responsibility and is less likely to be affected by his current contract negotiations.
“I don’t think it is (about) the contract,” Amorim said when asked about Mainoo’s situation. “Everybody in England sees him as a very, very good player.”
The manager talked about the tactical changes he has had to do for Mainoo, which can have an influence on his consistency. “He played in the European Championship final, so I think it is more the position. Then he’s not comfortable because before he was always playing and now he sometimes plays, sometimes doesn’t.”
Amorim thinks that the happier a player is on the field, the better he will be performing. “I think the key point is the position. It’s different for him, it demands a lot from him and today, in that position, I feel that (he was) more happy to play. Simple as that.”
Mainoo and Garnacho were the driving forces behind Manchester United’s 2022 FA Youth Cup victory and have since become integral first-team players. Their potential to shine on the biggest stage was well demonstrated in May’s FA Cup final against Manchester City, where both scored in a thrilling win.
Recognizing the importance of nurturing young talents, Amorim expressed his desire to integrate more academy graduates into the first team. He acknowledged that financial considerations play a role in the club’s decision-making but emphasized that developing homegrown players remains a priority.
“That part is true (about finances), but I want players like Kobbie and Garnacho,” Amorim said ahead of United’s next Premier League match against Crystal Palace. “You have to bring more (through) because that is something that all the clubs in England have to take advantage (of). The players that come from the academy – to play, to feel the shirt, and also to sell.”
For Manchester United, developing and retaining young talents like Garnacho and Mainoo is not just about financial prudence but also about preserving the club’s rich tradition of producing top-class players from its academy. With Amorim at the helm, the message is clear: hard work and commitment will always be rewarded.
Garnacho’s story is an inspiring example of how setbacks can become stepping stones. With renewed focus and determination, he is now on the right path to becoming a key figure in United’s future. Whether he stays at Old Trafford beyond this season is yet to be seen, but one thing is for sure—his talent and work ethic are impossible to ignore.
