Manchester United’s newest star stepped into the spotlight last night to make his first start for the club.
Wonderkid Alejandro Garnacho was named in the starting line-up against Sheriff Tiraspol and did not disappoint.
One particular piece of skill stood out, when he flicked his left boot behind his right to control a cross-field pass from substitute Harry Maguire.
It was a piece of skill a young Cristiano Ronaldo would have been proud of, and to execute it so flawlessly in front of 76,000 fans and millions watching around the world, showed his fearless character.
Garnacho was not afraid to mix in fancy footwork with direct running, throwing in stepovers too, as he looked to gain the edge over his opponents.
The teenager completed more dribbles than any player on the pitch (3) and was voted as man of the match by Manchester United supporters via the club website.
Garnacho’s skill did not create any controversy, unlike the hysteria which followed Antony’s spin move in the first half.
The Brazilian made the error of misplacing his pass after completing two 360 spins, bringing about some needless outrage from BT Sport’s pundits.
Paul Scholes and Robbie Savage lambasted Antony, branding the skill ‘ridiculous’.
There was no such criticism of Garnacho, and nor should there be. The youngster was a breath of fresh air and Manchester United fans will be seeing a lot more of him throughout this season, and in the years ahead.
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