A 1-1 draw at home is never a cause for celebration, but Manchester United fans had reasons to feel optimistic after their match against Arsenal on Sunday. Despite a dull first half, the Red Devils sparked into life after Bruno Fernandes’ stunning free-kick just before halftime.
Alejandro Garnacho was pivotal to United’s improved performance in the second half, with manager Ruben Amorim hailing it as the winger’s “best game” since taking charge. While Garnacho has faced challenges in recent months, including being dropped for the Manchester derby, the 20-year-old remains a crucial attacking threat for the team. He recently provided an assist for Joshua Zirkzee in San Sebastian, showcasing his potential.
There were rumors of a £60m move to Chelsea in January, but United retained their prized asset. Garnacho is currently the club’s third-highest scorer this season, despite only scoring once under Amorim. Signed for just £420k in 2020, the Argentine winger has risen through the ranks to become a key player for United.
Manchester United’s Top Scorers in 2024/25 (All Competitions)
| Player Stats | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Player | Games | Goals | Assists |
| Bruno Fernandes | 42 | 12 | 13 |
| Amad | 36 | 9 | 7 |
| Alejandro Garnacho | 43 | 8 | 7 |
| Rasmus Hojlund | 37 | 7 | 1 |
| Marcus Rashford | 24 | 7 | 3 |
| Joshua Zirkzee | 42 | 6 | 2 |
| Christian Eriksen | 25 | 4 | 4 |
| Casemiro | 30 | 3 | 0 |
| Harry Maguire | 28 | 3 | 0 |
Garnacho’s Rise Under Ten Hag
Garnacho’s journey to the first team began in May 2022, when he shone in United’s FA Youth Cup final victory over Nottingham Forest. Despite making his senior debut under Ralf Rangnick, he had to wait for opportunities under Erik ten Hag, who initially excluded him from the 2022 summer tour due to concerns about his attitude.
Gradually integrated into the first team, Garnacho made his mark with crucial contributions, including a late winner against Fulham. By the end of the 2022/23 season, he had recorded nine goals and assists, despite starting only 14 games.
Elanga’s Departure and Garnacho’s Emergence
At the start of the 2022/23 season, Anthony Elanga was preferred on the wings, but his lack of end product saw him fall out of favor. Elanga was eventually sold to Nottingham Forest for £15m in the summer of 2023, a move now considered a “bargain” given his impressive performances for Forest, including 11 goal involvements in the Premier League this season.
Meanwhile, Garnacho has continued to develop, tallying 15 goals and assists across all competitions this season. While Elanga has found success at Forest, Garnacho’s rise at United highlights the club’s faith in his potential.
As United look to strengthen their attacking options, the question remains: could Elanga have played a role in Amorim’s squad? For now, Garnacho’s emergence as a key player suggests United made the right call in backing the young Argentine.
