Aheed Abrar
Erik ten Hag reluctant to put timeline on Alejandro Garnacho injury return for Manchester United
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has been reluctant to put a timeline on the return of Alejandro Garnacho from injury.
The Argentine national picked up a knock during the Red Devils’ 0-0 draw against Southampton in the Premier League. He came on as a substitute in the second half but had to be withdrawn before the end of the match.
Speaking to the media via Manchester Evening News, Ten Hag was confident of the 18-year-old’s return to action before the end of the season. However, the gaffer does not feel it is right to give a tentative return date.
“We have something in our heads, but I don’t want [to say publicly]. He will definitely be back before the end of the season. I think he will be in the final stages, but I don’t want to bring so much pressure on the medical and Garnacho to set a date when to be back.”
Garnacho signed for the Old Trafford side in the summer of 2020 from Atletico Madrid. After playing for the Manchester-based club’s youth sides, he has broken into the first team in the current campaign.
Initially, Ten Hag did not seem to have faith in the Argentine. The youngster was hardly handed minutes. However, some clutch performances in the last few months have changed his stature in the team.
Now, the 18-year-old is one of the first players the Dutch manager turns to when bringing players off the bench. And rightfully so, given the impact the forward has had coming on as a substitute.
Garnacho’s highlight reel up until now for this season includes the stoppage time goal in the 2-1 win over Fulham at Craven Cottage. He also made a difference against Manchester City, providing the assist for our second goal as we made a comeback and won 2-1.
In the Argentine’s absence, the former Ajax head coach has had the likes of Jadon Sancho, Wout Weghorst, Facundo Pellistri and Anthony Elanga to rely on off the bench.
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However, the 18-year-old’s absence is a big blow. He brings an electric energy to the team whenever Ten Hag gives the forward minutes. Hopefully, the youngster will return soon and help United in the final stages of the campaign.
