Alejandro Garnacho is one of the brightest talents to have recently graduated from Manchester United’s academy.
While he has established himself as a first-team regular, his inconsistent performances have failed to impress many.
The forward has come under increased scrutiny since the arrival of manager Ruben Amorim.
He has struggled to play as the number 10 in the Portuguese tactician’s preferred 3-4-2-1 formation.
Garnacho scored just his second goal since the turn of the year in United’s 4-1 defeat to Newcastle United yesterday. He has contributed just three goals and four assists under Amorim.
Despite criticism from fans and pundits alike, former United centre-back Rio Ferdinand has consistently backed the 2024 Golden Boy Award nominee.
Ferdinand previously referred to Garnacho as United’s ‘only threat’ amid calls for him to be sold.
The former England international has now doubled down on his support for Garnacho, comparing the Argentine youngster to Portugal legend Cristiano Ronaldo.
He told Rio Ferdinand Presents: “Decision-making is the last thing that clicks for young players. Only the superstar ones get it right at a young age.
“Ronaldo wasn’t a decision-maker when he came in as a kid. The biggest thing players like Ronaldo had—those who weren’t the finished article—was that they were given time.
“We’re expecting Garnacho to be the finished article now. Who says he won’t improve with time, with good coaching, by observing good practices from professionals around him, and by being in the right environment?
“I think we expect too much—from Garnacho and many young players. I’ve been guilty of that, too.
“I’m not comparing him to Ronaldo as a player, but I still see enough in this kid, especially in what is currently a bang-average team.”
Man United could consider selling the Argentina international in the summer, with Napoli still holding their interest in him.
As a product of United’s academy, his sale would represent pure profit for the club.
Stats from transfermarkt.com
