Erik ten Hag has explained why he’s handed Alejandro Garnacho his first senior Manchester United start in tonight’s Europa League clash vs Sheriff Tiraspol at Old Trafford.
The Argentinian wonderkid comes into the side and is one of four changes Ten Hag has made to the team that drew 1-1 against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.
The 18-year-old has played five times for the Manchester United first team, three of which have come under Ten Hag during this campaign.
The former Atletico Madrid youngster hasn’t featured for the first team since coming off the bench in the dying stages of United’s 2-0 win against tonight’s opponents in Moldova last month.
Erik ten Hag explains why he’s handed Alejandro Garnacho his first senior Manchester United start
United’s number 49 will start alongside his hero Cristiano Ronaldo, who comes back into the side after being dropped against Chelsea, and Antony who maintains his record of starting every game since joining the twenty-time league champions.
Prior to kick off, Ten Hag was asked by MUTV whether Garnacho had earnt his first senior start for the club by impressing in training.
Ten Hag responded: “Yes and that’s why he gets the opportunity, he deserved it – he makes so many runs in behind.
“We have a trio with Cristiano, with Antony and Garnacho who have qualities to create, to dribble, that’s what is expected of them, to create chances and goals.”
When asked whether the Argentina Under-20 international will be able to learn from the best in Ronaldo, the Dutchman responded: “This pitch is not for learning, but for performing.”
Expanding on Garnacho’s inclusion and what he expects from the South American teenager, the former Ajax manager added on BT Sport: “Reliable but also the X-factor. He is one who can outplay the players and run behind.”
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