Alejandro Garnacho, one of Manchester United’s brightest young talents, has been at the center of discussions following Ruben Amorim’s debut as United’s manager. While Garnacho’s potential has been lauded by football legends like Sergio Aguero, questions remain about whether Amorim’s tactical approach is best suited to harness the Argentine’s unique abilities. This debate gained traction after Manchester United’s 1-1 draw against Ipswich Town, a match that showcased Amorim’s preference for the 3-4-3 formation—a setup that previously brought him success at Sporting CP.
In this system, Garnacho was deployed as one of the two No. 10s supporting Marcus Rashford, while Diogo Dalot and Amad Diallo operated as wing-backs. However, critics have raised concerns that this central positioning may not play to Garnacho’s strengths. Pundit Robbie Savage, speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, openly questioned the decision, suggesting that Garnacho’s skill set would make him more impactful in a wider role. Savage argued, “I don’t think Ruben Amorim’s system suits Alejandro Garnacho. He was used as one of the number tens, but I think he’s better as a wing-back.” His remarks echoed the sentiment of many who believe Garnacho’s dynamic style thrives on the flanks, where he has more space to exploit and a clearer path to influence the game.
Despite these critiques, Sergio Aguero, a Manchester City legend and one of Argentina’s most celebrated forwards, has publicly defended Garnacho. Aguero, reflecting on the 20-year-old’s performances, emphasized the importance of patience and support for a player still developing his game. In an interview with the Manchester Evening News, Aguero stated, “People forget how young Alejandro is. He’s already shown his worth in the Premier League at a young age. With the support and mentorship of his teammates, I’m confident he has a bright future ahead.” Aguero’s words carry weight, given his extensive experience at the highest levels of the sport.
Garnacho’s recent form has done little to dampen the optimism surrounding his potential. The young forward is currently Manchester United’s top scorer this season, with an impressive tally of seven goals and four assists across all competitions. These 11 goal contributions highlight his growing influence, even amid occasional inconsistencies earlier in the campaign. One notable moment was his subdued celebration after scoring in United’s 3-0 victory over Leicester, a gesture that sparked conversations about his maturity and focus.
Amorim’s debut has not only introduced a new tactical framework but also reignited debates about the best way to utilize Garnacho’s talents. While Amorim’s 3-4-3 system has a proven track record, adapting it to suit Manchester United’s roster—and especially a rising star like Garnacho—may require fine-tuning. Garnacho’s performance as a No. 10 may not have lived up to expectations, but the flexibility and potential he brings to the team remain undeniable.
As the season progresses, Garnacho’s role under Amorim will undoubtedly be closely scrutinized. Whether he continues as a central playmaker or returns to the flanks, his ability to adapt and thrive will be crucial for United’s success. For now, Garnacho stands as a symbol of hope and promise for a club navigating the challenges of a new managerial era, with the backing of legends like Aguero serving as a testament to his undeniabl
e talent.