Manchester United made the win against Brentford a chance to say goodbye to several players – except Jesse Lingard.
This meant a handful of younger players did not get the chance they were hoping for, with Hannibal and Shola Shoretire not even making the bench, after featuring against Brentford.
Alvaro Fernandez and Alejandro Garnacho were unused substitutes, and while the latter made his debut against Chelsea, the former is still waiting for his opportunity.
Fernandez cannot be far away, having impressed for the under-23s this season on a consistent basis, and set up a goal for Garnacho at the weekend.
The youngster did get the chance to savour the Old Trafford atmosphere for a first team game again, a valuable experience.
He sent out a message out on social media after the game, showing how much he is looking forward to eventually making his debut.
Fernandez wrote ‘is coming’, in reference to his hopes of shortly making his first team debut.
Fernandez signed for United from Real Madrid in 2020, the same summer Alejandro Garnacho joined from Atletico.
He has played more under-23 games than Garnachom featuring regularly at left-back, and has become a key contributor.
Fernandez has provided nine assists this season and scored four goals, showing his attacking quality, and new boss Erik ten Hag could enjoy working with him.
Before the Dutchman arrives, Fernandez hopes his debut will come in the final two matches of this season, with United facing Brighton and then Crystal Palace.
Even if just a late appearance from the bench, a first appearance would be memorable for the 19-year-old.