Manchester United defender Alvaro Fernandez made his La Liga debut for Granada last night.
You might have missed this one. Unlike the masses of attention placed on Mason Greenwood‘s substitute debut at Getafe, covered heavily by newspapers, Alvaro Fernandez‘s debut was a lot more low key.
Fernandez’s exit from Manchester United was itself controversial. He was allowed to leave despite the need for left-backs.
Robbie Savage had hit out, via Teamtalk, labelling it a mistake for United not to put their trust in youth.
READ: Confirmed Manchester United transfers in, out, loans, releases, youth for 2023/24
Alvaro Fernandez debut for Granada
Alvaro Fernandez, 20, was named as a substitute for Granada in their home game against Girona.
He came on in the 83rd minute of a frenetic game with his side losing 3-1. Grenada pulled to score back to 3-2 before conceding late and losing 4-2.
Fernandez made 11 touches total, completing six of seven passes, and won three duels, also winning a free-kick.
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It was a steady introduction into first team football for the former Real Madrid wonderkid.
However, it could be a challenging season. While no shame in losing to third-place surprise package Girona, Fernandez’s side Granada sit in the relegation zone, slumped in 18th place.
Fernandez wrote on Instagram: “Turn the page and stay strong. Very important matches are coming up and we’ll be going to all of them! Thank you for your unconditional support to the thousands of fans who joined us tonight. Very pleased to debut on @laliga with @granadacf. This is just getting started.”
Fernandez awaits Manchester United debut
Fernandez spent last season on loan at Preston North End in the Championship. Now he is spending the season in La Liga with Granada.
Many fans believe Fernandez’s prospects at United look bleak after being overlooked, with a loan for Sergio Reguilon preferred.
However, unlike former United teammate Marc Jurado who was sold permanently to Espanyol, Fernandez is only on loan, keeping the door open.
The Athletic report United believe Fernandez may be good enough for first team chances next season if his loan goes well. It’s up to him to prove his quality over in Spain.