Manchester United winger <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/alejandro-garnacho/">Alejandro Garnacho</a>‘s absence from Sunday’s Manchester derby against Manchester City sparked considerable speculation. The Argentinian-Spanish winger was omitted from the matchday squad, reportedly due to an internal investigation into leaks emanating from within the club.



According to The Sun, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/manchester-united">Manchester United</a> launched an internal inquiry into recent leaks concerning team information. Garnacho is reportedly among those suspected of leaking information.



Manager Ruben Amorim was reportedly displeased that the starting lineup was revealed to the press and even to rival manager <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/pep-guardiola">Pep Guardiola</a> the night before the derby. He subsequently interrogated Garnacho and Amad Diallo, who scored the winning goal in the 2-1 victory.



Amorim commented on the situation during the post-match press conference: “I know that story; I think it’s impossible to fix it; there are a lot of people at the club; the players talk to agents; it’s not a good thing.” However, he expressed belief that neither Diallo nor Garnacho were directly involved in the leak.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20241217_WST_544443_Ruben-Amorim-5-1200x675_93aac6b1.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="" class="wp-image-544444" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/17084513/Ruben-Amorim-5-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/17084513/Ruben-Amorim-5-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/17084513/Ruben-Amorim-5-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/17084513/Ruben-Amorim-5-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/17084513/Ruben-Amorim-5-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/17084513/Ruben-Amorim-5-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/17084513/Ruben-Amorim-5-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/17084513/Ruben-Amorim-5.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



<h2>Focus on Garnacho’s brother</h2>



Social media users have implicated Garnacho’s brother, Roberto, as the source of the leak. While Roberto has not commented on the situation, the incident has caused significant internal disruption at Old Trafford.


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Alejandro Garnacho’s absence from the Manchester derby highlights a significant internal issue within Manchester United. While no concrete evidence implicates him or his brother in the alleged leaks, the matter will have significant consequences for those found responsible. The investigation will likely play a pivotal role in defining the club’s internal dynamics going forward.

Is Alejandro Garnacho in trouble? Manchester United investigates team leaks involving the young star

Alejandro Garnacho under scrutiny: Manchester United launches investigation into team leaks - World Soccer Talk

Manchester United's investigation into team leaks puts Alejandro Garnacho in the spotlight

Alejandro Garnacho under scrutiny: Manchester United launches investigation into team leaks

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<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/manchester-united/">Manchester United</a> were set to visit the Etihad Stadium on Sunday evening to face rivals Manchester City in Matchday 16 of the 2024-25 Premier League season. Fans were left stunned to learn that stars Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho were excluded from the squad. Addressing the controversy, head coach <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/ruben-amorim/">Ruben Amorim</a> provided clarity on their absence.



United faced scrutiny even before the derby began, as the leaked roster revealed that neither <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/marcus-rashford/">Rashford</a> nor <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/alejandro-garnacho/">Garnacho</a> would feature in the game. With no reports of injuries or suspensions, speculation quickly spread among fans and pundits.



Speaking to Sky Sports before the match, Amorim shed light on the rationale behind the decision: “We try to evaluate everything: training, performance, game performance, engagement with the teammates, push the teammates up… Everything on the line when we analyze and try to choose the players, so that was my selection,” the coach admitted.



The Portuguese manager also disclosed that he informed the players of their exclusion after the final training session. “I pay attention to everything. The way you eat, the way you put your clothes to go to a game. Everything. I make my evaluation and then I decide,” the Portuguese revealed.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20241215_WST_544186_Garnacho-Rashford-Manchester-United-1200x675_4d1a7c19.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="" class="wp-image-544188" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/15113806/Garnacho-Rashford-Manchester-United-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/15113806/Garnacho-Rashford-Manchester-United-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/15113806/Garnacho-Rashford-Manchester-United-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/15113806/Garnacho-Rashford-Manchester-United-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/15113806/Garnacho-Rashford-Manchester-United-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/15113806/Garnacho-Rashford-Manchester-United-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/15113806/Garnacho-Rashford-Manchester-United-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/15113806/Garnacho-Rashford-Manchester-United.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



Fans expressed their concerns as early as Saturday night, when the starting lineup was leaked almost 24 hours ahead of kickoff. Now, with Rashford and Garnacho confirmed absent, many believe the decision is a calculated move by Amorim to assert his authority and demand full commitment, especially in a high-stakes clash like the Manchester derby.


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<h2>Rashford and Garnacho under the microscope</h2>



Both Rashford and Garnacho have faced scrutiny in recent weeks for underwhelming performances. Rashford, a regular starter, has struggled to maintain consistency, while Garnacho, frequently used as a substitute, has failed to make a significant impact during his opportunities.



However, the decision to omit both players seems less about their on-field performance and more about their attitude. Rashford and Garnacho remain two of United’s most talented attacking options, with a quality unmatched by most of their teammates. Yet, Amorim’s insistence on evaluating every aspect—not just performance—appears to have influenced his decision to exclude them entirely.



While many see this as a pivotal moment in Amorim’s tenure, the coach denied that his decision was meant to send a message. “I don’t want to send a message, it’s simply an evaluation, and they know it. The players are really smart, and everybody understands my decision, and I have to choose. It’s a simple selection,” the coach said to Sky Sports.

Ruben Amorim reveals key details on stars Rashford and Garnacho's absence in Manchester derby

Ruben Amorim reveals key details on stars Rashford and Garnacho's absence in Manchester derby - World Soccer Talk

Atletico Madrid has reportedly made a surprise cash-plus-player bid for Manchester United winger Alejandro Garnacho. The offer, submitted ahead of the January transfer window, includes €40 million (£33 million) and Atletico midfielder Pablo Barrios in exchange. This unexpected approach could see the 20-year-old return to his Spanish roots. Garnacho joined Manchester United’s academy in 2020 for a reported £420,000 fee.



Garnacho has been one of Manchester United’s most consistent performers this season, scoring seven goals and providing four assists in 18 appearances. This impressive form has seemingly prompted Atletico to accelerate their pursuit. 



Reports in Spain suggest Garnacho is not entirely content at Old Trafford, a sentiment seemingly reflected in his muted celebration after scoring against Leicester.



Atletico’s offer includes a significant cash component (€40 million) and the addition of midfielder Pablo Barrios. Barrios, typically an attacking midfielder, has been deployed in a deeper role this season under Diego Simeone, although he is highly regarded by his manager, who has reportedly indicated he might allow a move. Manchester United, however, reportedly desire a fee closer to €60 million plus Barrios before considering the proposal.


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<h2>Manchester United’s stance and Garnacho’s ambitions</h2>



Despite reports suggesting Manchester United are considering Atletico’s offer, sources within the club insist there are currently no plans to let Garnacho leave, particularly not in January. 



Garnacho is United’s leading scorer this season, highlighting his growing importance to the team. Moreover, it’s understood that Garnacho’s long-term ambition is to play for Real Madrid, making Atletico’s bid an unlikely pathway for him.



The arrival of new manager Ruben Amorim could be key in resolving Garnacho’s situation. United hope Amorim can help the young player rediscover his enthusiasm following recent criticism from some supporters. Captain Bruno Fernandes has reportedly spoken to Garnacho about focusing on his game and ignoring negative commentary.

Alejandro Garnacho of Manchester United is targeted by a European giant for £60 million

Alejandro Garnacho of Manchester United is targeted by a European giant for £60 million - World Soccer Talk

Since Erik ten Hag‘s departure, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/manchester-united/">Manchester United</a> has seen a resurgence in form, climbing up the Premier League and Europa League table, and progressing to the next stage of the Carabao Cup. Their strong run of form continued in Matchday 11 of the Premier League with a commanding 3-0 victory over Leicester City. However, a curious moment arose during the match when Alejandro Garnacho chose not to celebrate his spectacular goal, prompting an explanation from team captain <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/bruno-fernandes/">Bruno Fernandes</a>.



The Argentine winger entered the match in the 57th minute, replacing Marcus Rashford with United holding a 2-0 lead at Old Trafford. <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/alejandro-garnacho/">Garnacho</a> sealed the scoreline in the 82nd minute with a stunning strike, but instead of celebrating with his usual enthusiasm, he appeared subdued.



Addressing the incident, Fernandes provided insight into Garnacho’s muted reaction: “It was a good day at work, I have to say. We have a lot of players with big qualities, but people can get too excited after one game and too down after another. Garnacho scored a banger but didn’t celebrate like he should because he thinks he has lost faith from some fans. I told him people will always moan but lots of people like you and enjoy what you do.”



The Portuguese captain revealed he encouraged Garnacho to embrace the moment and celebrate with the fans. “I told him to celebrate, it was something special. He is a special player, we have difference makers. They are the ones who win us games. We want them to score every game but that isn’t going to happen,” the Portuguese stated.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20241111_WST_539274_Alejandro-garnacho-manchester-United-1200x675_5d14122a.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="" class="wp-image-539276" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Alejandro-garnacho-manchester-United-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Alejandro-garnacho-manchester-United-300x169.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Alejandro-garnacho-manchester-United-768x432.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Alejandro-garnacho-manchester-United-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Alejandro-garnacho-manchester-United-740x416.jpg 740w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Alejandro-garnacho-manchester-United-490x275.jpg 490w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Alejandro-garnacho-manchester-United-250x140.jpg 250w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Alejandro-garnacho-manchester-United.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



Despite this particular incident, Garnacho has been a standout performer for United this season. After scoring the decisive goal in last season’s FA Cup final against Manchester City, the 20-year-old has carried that momentum into the 2024-25 campaign. So far, he has featured in 18 matches, scoring seven goals and providing four assists.


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<h2>Bruno Fernandes reaches milestone with United</h2>



Sunday’s victory was also a special occasion for Bruno Fernandes, as the Portuguese star made his 250th appearance for Manchester United across all competitions. Before the match, he was honored with a commemorative shirt featuring photos of his most memorable moments with the club.



Fernandes played a pivotal role in the win against <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/leicester-city/">Leicester City</a>, opening the scoring and providing the assist for Garnacho’s goal. The performance brought Fernandes’ <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/premier-league/">Premier League</a> tally to 99 goal contributions, comprising 56 goals and 43 assists in 170 league appearances. Across all competitions, his total stands at an impressive 156 goal contributions, with 83 goals and 73 assists.

Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes explains why Garnacho didn't celebrate after stunning goal

Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes explains why Garnacho didn't celebrate after stunning goal - World Soccer Talk

Alejandro Garnacho’s potential participation at the Olympic Games and Copa America could cause Manchester United significant issues next season.



The Argentine forward has become an integral part of Erik ten Hag’s squad. However, he will likely be called up for the 2024 <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/2022/04/07/world-cups-and-olympics-present-historic-opportunity-for-u-s/">Olympic Games</a> in Paris.



The <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/nations/argentina-national-team-tv-schedule/">Argentine</a> has increasing prominence at United, highlighted by his FA Cup final goal and a stunner against Everton. But it has also caught the attention of the Argentine national teams. 



With La Albiceleste set to defend their <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/copa-america-tv-schedule/">Copa America</a> title in June and subsequently participate in the Olympics, Garnacho is in contention for both squads.



<h2>Summer duties with Argentina</h2>



According to reports from <a href="https://tntsports.com.ar/seleccion/decision-mascherano-garnacho-seleccion-20240528-0040.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">TNT Argentina</a>, Javier Mascherano, the coach of the Olympic team, plans to include <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/garnacho-in-hot-water-likes-social-media-post-slamming-ten-hag/">Garnacho</a> in his squad. This comes after Argentina’s Copa America campaign, which runs from June 20 to July 14. The Olympics follow shortly, from July 25 to August 11, overlapping with Manchester United’s crucial pre-season preparations.



The 19-year-old will likely play a key role for Argentina. His inclusion in the Olympic squad would mean a quick turnaround from Copa America, potentially leaving him with minimal rest before the Premier League season kicks off on August 16. This situation mirrors the experience of Lionel Messi, who famously missed early-season matches for Barcelona to play in the Olympics, an opportunity he has always cherished.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="800" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240601_WST_509769_imago1042965730h-1200x800_6ce5fe0a.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=800" alt="" class="wp-image-509800" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/06/imago1042965730h-1200x800.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/06/imago1042965730h-300x200.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/06/imago1042965730h-768x512.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/06/imago1042965730h-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/06/imago1042965730h-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure><figcaption>Alejandro Garnacho has already represented Argentina at international level</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Club vs Country dilemma</h2>



Manchester United find themselves in a difficult position. The club has not yet responded to Argentina’s request, but they face a lose-lose situation. Garnacho’s participation in the Olympics would likely disrupt his pre-season. Thus, it could also delay his return to full fitness for the Premier League. However, denying him the chance to represent his country could lead to dissatisfaction and potential unrest.



United’s new co-owner, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/ratcliffe-claims-united-will-exercise-caution-in-transfer-market/">Sir Jim Ratcliffe</a>, and manager Erik ten Hag will need to weigh these factors carefully. Ratcliffe, who also owns Nice, will have a busy summer rejuvenating United’s squad. 



Garnacho, along with Andre Onana, Rasmus Hojlund, and Kobbie Mainoo, is one of the few players reportedly untouchable and a key part of the club’s future.



If the winger plays in both the Copa America and the Olympics, he will miss a significant part of United’s pre-season and possibly the early matches of the new campaign. 



The Olympic Games’ final match is on August 9, just a week before the Premier League starts. Players taking part will be given a rest period before returning to club duties.



Last season, Garnacho emerged as a crucial player for United, scoring 10 goals and providing five assists in 50 appearances across all competitions. His absence at the beginning of the season could hinder United’s efforts to improve on their previous league campaign.



Photo credits: IMAGO / Crystal Pix : IMAGO / ZUMA Wire

Olympics and Copa America beginning to wreak havoc on United

Garnacho's possible participation in the Copa America & Olympic Games could cause Manchester United an issue

Manchester United have had their fair share of problems this season, and Alejandro Garnacho’s social media behavior doesn’t help things at all.



<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/man-united-lays-groundwork-for-success-with-teenager-minutes">Garnacho</a> has had a very successful individual season at <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/manchester-united-tv-schedule/">Manchester United</a>. He starts every game, plays on the right side instead of his regular left, and contributes offensively and defensively.



At the young age of 19, he is quickly emerging as a crucial player for the Red Devils. In the match against Everton, he became the youngest player in Premier League history to win two penalties in a single game.



He might be a promising player for the next season.



He’s a calm and collected teammate who has been a popular choice despite the team’s rough season. United have found a new right winger, thanks to Jadon Sancho’s loan exit and Antony’s bad play.



United have had a rough season and are in danger of finishing worst in the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/premier-league-tv-schedule/">Premier League</a> era. However, the 19-year-old rising star has been a rare shining light. The Red Devils’ depressing 2-2 draw against Bournemouth dropped them to seventh place. A further decline in form between now and next month would be a record-breaking setback.



<h2>Why did Ten Hag replace Garnacho?</h2>



Even this past weekend, the issues at Old Trafford persisted, and they have begun to affect Garnacho as well. At halftime in United’s 2-2 away draw with Bournemouth on Saturday, the 19-year-old was substituted.



The Argentina international had let Bournemouth score first after giving the ball away. But while the teenager assisted on Bruno Fernandes’ first-half equalizer, he was later substituted for Amad.



Following the game, supporters saw that the account of the 19-year-old had liked two posts made by Mark Goldbridge, a host of United fan channels. In one post, it said that at <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/incoming-united-director-meets-with-ten-hags-likely-successor-20240302-WST-492746.html">Ten Hag</a>‘s post-match news conference, he had thrown Garnacho under the bus.



The Dutchman explained why he brought off the player at halftime, citing tactical and fitness reasons. Ten Hag said in his post-match news conference that United needed surgery on Garnacho’s flank because of their defensive troubles, reflecting on the replacement.



“I think we had to repair the right side,” Ten Hag said. “We didn’t play well, the spaces were there in possession and we had to bring a sub there. Garnacho was, during the week, also not training. Only yesterday [he trained]. So, we thought bring some energy and bring some more quality, quality in the sense of cooperation, togetherness on that right side.”



<h2>What happened after United’s draw?</h2>



It seems that Garnacho is still upset about being replaced; he liked two messages by United supporter Mark Goldbridge on social media. Some of the tweets were critical of Ten Hag’s treatment of the winger. Others argued that other players deserved to go out before him.



Goldbridge <a href="https://twitter.com/markgoldbridge/status/1779205675106656582" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wrote a post that read</a>: “Garnacho has been one of our best players this season. Poor first half but taking him off at half-time and holding him up as the problem is a joke. Many have done much worse week in week out and are still out there.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="658" height="292" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240414_WST_501222_image-10_c6bf552a.webp&amp;width=658&amp;height=292" alt="" class="wp-image-501261" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/image-10.png 658w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/image-10-300x133.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 658px) 100vw, 658px"></figure><figcaption>Mark Goldbridge is a Manchester United vlogger</figcaption></figure>



<a href="https://twitter.com/markgoldbridge/status/1779227552155852995" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">According to Goldbridge</a>, after Ten Hag’s remarks to the media: “Ten Hag subtly blaming Garnacho in the post match press conference… Not a good look throwing a 19-year-old under the bus who has actually delivered for you this season. But then again he’s clearly scared of upsetting the bigger earners.”



Garnacho also posted a photo of himself staring down at the field with an expression of disbelief on his Instagram account in response to United’s draw.



Photo credit: IMAGO / Sports Press Photo

Garnacho in hot water, likes social media post slamming Ten Hag

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