Alejandro Garnacho played his first pre-season game for Manchester United against Rayo Vallecano and it was worth the wait.
The 17-year-old was Manchester United’s most dangerous player in the first half, overshadowing Cristiano Ronaldo with an electric performance.
With United struggling to break the determined La Liga side down, United’s best moments came whenever Garnacho got on the ball.
The Argentine looked at home at Old Trafford, the stadium where he scored seven goals last season for the under-18 side during the FA Youth Cup run, and another for the under-23s.
READ MORE: Confirmed Manchester United transfers, ins, outs, loans, releases for 2022/23
Garnacho was outstanding v Rayo
With Manchester United low on options in attack, Garnacho was a breath of fresh air. He caused problems for Rayo whenever he was in possession with his willingness to run with the ball, and ability to go either way.
Garnacho was picked out by MUTV co-commentator Ben Thornley, who said: “He’s been the outstanding performer in this first half, there’s been a buzz from the crowd whenever he gets on the ball.”
The teenager started this game, but could be the perfect impact substitute for Erik ten Hag to call on in the Premier League.
He has the energy of a young Cristiano Ronaldo when he gets on the ball and the supporters react in a similar way, expecting him to conjure up a moment of magic.
We have seen Garnacho tear it up at youth level, and it was reassuring to see him cause the same type of havoc against first team level opposition.
This performance should have secured him a spot in United’s squad for next season, which could in turn lead to a World Cup place with Argentina.
United’s number 49 showed the club have a gem on their hands. Erik ten Hag will be rubbing his hands together with glee.
Receive a digest of our best United content each week direct to your mailbox
