The 18-year-old was pictured leaving Old Trafford in a protective boot after a challenge from Kyle Walker-Peters during Sunday’s stalemate.
Garnacho’s injury adds to manager Erik ten Hag’s selection woes
Manchester United suffered a blow as teenage forward Alejandro Garnacho was ruled out for an “essential part of the season” due to an injury sustained against Southampton. The 18-year-old was pictured leaving Old Trafford in a protective boot after a challenge from Kyle Walker-Peters during Sunday’s stalemate. This injury adds to manager Erik ten Hag’s selection woes. Midfielder Casemiro will miss the next four domestic matches due to suspension after receiving his second red card of the season in the same game. United are currently two points above Tottenham in fourth place, with a game in hand. The absence of Garnacho and injuries to Christian Eriksen, Anthony Martial, and Marcel Sabitzer will be a significant loss for the team as they look to secure their place in the top four.
The teenager stated that he is focused on his recovery
The teenager has also had to withdraw from the Argentina squad for the international break, meaning he will definitely be unavailable for United’s games against Real Betis and Fulham. In an Instagram post, Garnacho expressed his disappointment at being unable to help his team during this crucial part of the season. However, he also stated that he is focused on his recovery and plans to return stronger than ever. This attitude and determination will undoubtedly boost the team, who will miss his attacking prowess. The absence of Casemiro is another major blow for United, who have been heavily reliant on the Brazilian midfielder this season. His suspension means that ten Hag will have to look for alternatives in the midfield, as Eriksen, Sabitzer, and Donny van de Beek are also currently injured.
United have a 43 per cent win rate in the seven games
In the Southampton game, Bruno Fernandes started in central midfield alongside Casemiro but struggled in the deeper role, losing possession 28 times – more than any other player in the match. This performance raises doubts about his ability to operate efficiently in a midfield two. Ten Hag brought on Scott McTominay just before half-time, and the Scotland international performed well. McTominay won the most duels of any United player, made four tackles and four clearances – no United player made more. This could prompt the manager to restore the ‘McFred’ midfield partnership, which has been successful in the past. However, with Casemiro, the team can adjust and find a new balance in midfield. Ten Hag acknowledged the challenge of playing without Casemiro, stating that he would “consider overnight” how to approach the upcoming games against Fulham, Newcastle, Brentford, and Everton.
The absence of such an influential player at a crucial time in the campaign is a significant setback for the team. United have a 43 per cent win rate in the seven games they have played without him, compared to a 76 per cent win rate in the 37 games he has played. His absence will be felt, and the team must dig deep to overcome this setback.
In conclusion, Manchester United’s hopes of securing a top-four finish have been dealt a blow with the injuries to Garnacho and Casemiro. The team must find new solutions in attack and midfield as they enter a critical period of the season. The attitude and determination shown by Garnacho in his Instagram post is a positive sign, and the team will need to rally together to overcome this setback and finish the season strongly.