Manchester United youngster Alejandro Garnacho must still refine areas of his game in order to become an elite player, says a top scout.
Alejandro Garnacho has been the breakout star of Manchester United’s season, with his rapid progress only slightly delayed by an injury which kept him out of the recent Argentina squad.
Garnacho was recently named by Goal among the top nine young players in the world.
A similar list now created by ESPN on the best players aged 21 or under, has named Garnacho among the top 25.
How Garnacho can improve
Alejandro Garnacho has scored four goals for United this season and provided four assists, including one in the Manchester derby.
The 18-year-old has made a successful step up from the academy, a year ago he was leading the charge to a FA Youth Cup win.
Garnacho would be the first to admit he is not the finished product, even though he is well ahead of schedule of most of his peers.
Renowned scout Tor-Kristian Karlsen told ESPN he has identified the areas of hi game where Alejandro Garnacho can improve.
He explained: “Often too selfish in possession, his decision-making needs work. His off-the-ball movement is becoming less predictable, but some added upper-body strength would make him even more effective.”
Garnacho is still developing physically and this time rehabbing his ankle injury will also allow his some added gym time.
Karlsen did have positive words to say about Garnacho too, commenting: “Garnacho can turn the dynamics of a game through mesmerising, intuitive dribbles.
“His outstanding balance, coordination, burst of acceleration and ability to take on defenders on either side make him hard to read.”
Garnacho could still return for Manchester United this season. Manager Erik ten Hag has urged him to be ‘ready’ to make an impact.
If he does return, Garnacho will be desperate to meet that demand, but he can only do so if he channels his enthusiasm, and doesn’t try to do too much himself.
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