Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has questioned the selection of his winger Alejandro Garnacho in Argentina’s preliminary squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup. Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni has already touched down in Qatar, but is yet to announce the final 26-man roster for the tournament. However, he did name a preliminary squad like the other participating 31 teams, which included the name of United’s teenaged winger Garnacho.
While the 18-year-old winger may be rejoicing his inclusion in the list, his club manager Ten Hag feels risk in Argentina possibly taking him to Qatar. Garnacho has had a breakthrough season with the Red Devils so far, grabbing the opportunities lent to him by Ten Hag with both the hands. However, the United manager feels it could be too early for the youngster to go to a World Cup tournament with his nation.
Erik ten Hag has doubts over Garnacho’s inclusion
Garnacho has displayed scintillating form, ever since breaking into the first team under Erik ten Hag. The new Man United boss should be credited with the winger’s development at the club, instead of rushing his induction in the senior squad. The Argentine wonderkid has been touted as one of the stars of the future, with him already showing the glimpses of it.
Erik ten Hag has handed the United academy player a total of 275 minutes across 7 games in all competitions, wherein the winger has managed an impressive 1 goal and 2 assists. His recent 28-minute cameo against Aston Villa in the League Cup saw him provide 2 crucial assists and create 2 chances which helped United complete a comeback win and progress through to the next round. However, speaking after the game about Garnacho making the preliminary list of the La Albiceleste’s World Cup squad, Ten Hag said:
“It is a big step to go to a World Cup where all the best players go together. That [Garnacho’s selection in preliminary roster] is a big step and I don’t know if that is the right step for him. I think he has to keep clean, stay calm and work hard and develop, and improve game to game. It’s difficult to say, I don’t know the abilities of all the Argentina players. I know a lot of players from Argentina, but for 26, what is available for them.
“It was good that he came on and showed that performance and had that impact in the game, to be able to assist, make the dribbles and run behind. He still has things to learn but quite obviously we are happy with his development and he can contribute to the team. It depends on his approach, his attitude. When he keeps working then yes, it is possible [for him to play more]. He wants to improve every day. He has to do the right things in his lifestyle. He has the capability.”
The United manager’s words may have perplexed Garnacho, who nonetheless will celebrate his name being up there among the players who have a serious possibility of making it to Qatar. If all the Argentina coach decides to name Garnacho on his final roster, which seems highly likely since injury scares have been dealt to winger duo Angel di Maria and Paulo Dybala, the Man United player cold become one of the youngest attendees at the global showpiece in Qatar. Also, it could hand the 18-year-old an opportunity to make his debut for Argentina’s senior team.