Alejandro Garnacho Striving for First Start at Manchester United

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has praised Alejandro Garnacho for possessing the “X factor” and the potential to become a world-class player, while acknowledging that the 20-year-old still has significant work ahead of him. Garnacho, who has quickly become a fan favorite at Old Trafford, has scored 16 goals in 87 appearances since rising through the club's academy. His notable contributions include playing a key role in the FA Youth Cup victory in 2022 and scoring in the FA Cup final against Manchester City earlier this year. As Garnacho aims for his first start of the season against Brighton, Ten Hag emphasized the importance of hard work in the young winger's journey to greatness. “To make the jump to become a world-class player, a long way to go and it starts with very hard work,” Ten Hag stated, reinforcing that consistent performance is essential for Garnacho to be recognized among the elite in football. Ten Hag also highlighted the need for players with the “X factor” in top clubs, noting that Garnacho has shown glimpses of this quality. However, he stressed that to be considered world-class, players must deliver consistently. The manager's comments come as Garnacho, along with teammates Kobbie Mainoo and Rasmus Højlund, has been deemed crucial to the club's future, with Ten Hag confirming they are not for sale. In addition to Garnacho, Ten Hag reflected on Mainoo's recent experiences with the England national team, suggesting that such opportunities will enhance his development as a well-rounded midfielder.