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Can giving Alejandro Garnacho games on a regular basis actually provide a major boost to Manchester United’s season? This is probably what might be lingering in the minds of some Red Devils supporters. And that could actually be put to the test as Erik ten Hag’s side begins their Carabao Cup defence against Crystal Palace this Tuesday evening.
How more Alejandro Garnacho games can make a difference
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He could solve their problems in the wide areas
The Red Devils have been marred with problems in the early part of the 2023/24 season. A very specific issue has arisen in the right-wing position. Jadon Sancho remains barred from the first squad after appearing to publicly demean Ten Hag. Antony is being kept sidelined as he deals with allegations about his personal life.
Rather than playing a midfielder like Bruno Fernandes or Mason Mount in the wings, it’s more logical to play someone like Garnacho. The teenage sensation is best suited for the left-wing position. His entire style sees him taking on defenders in the wide areas, bursting past them into the box to cause chaos.
In the current situation, a possible option for Ten Hag could be to move Marcus Rashford to the right-wing role and play Garnacho on the left. If Rashford is rested, then Facundo Pellistri could also take up that position on the right side. Garnacho is at his best when making his darting runs through the run into the central channels and attempting his beautiful curling attempts on goal.
Could Carabao Cup opener be a perfect platform to unleash Alejandro Garnacho?
Garnacho started both of his side’s first two Premier League matches but was unable to complete 90 minutes in either. He has received only 11 minutes of action in their last five games (across all competitions). Ironically, his best performance was probably in the 3-2 loss to Arsenal last month – where Garnacho had a brilliant late goal ruled out.
Erik ten Hag must have plans to help the Argentine winger be more efficient for the Red Devils. The Carabao Cup can be ideal for him to rediscover his best form. Crystal Palace are likely to rest some first-teamers and also have some tired players from their last game at the weekend.
Garnacho is fresh after being benched in the last five games. He’s hungry and ready to torment opposition sides to earn more minutes for the Red Devils. With his incisive style and electric pace, a well-rested Garnacho could thrive in the Carabao Cup.
He was exciting to watch in the competition last season, averaging 1.6 shots per 90 and 1.8 dribbles per 90 despite starting three games. The youngster will aim to amplify his style, contribute to more goals and win over the manager’s confidence in the Crystal Palace clash.
Which other Premier League youngsters can fire up Carabao Cup Round 3?
Garnacho is not the only highly-rated Premier League youngster looking to make a mark in their side’s upcoming Carabao Cup game. This round is ideal for budding young players to prove their quality and improve their chances of getting more game-time going forward.
Ben Doak (Liverpool)
Liverpool’s 17-year-old forward Ben Doak is ready to push his way into the first-team. The Carabao Cup opener against Leicester City can be ideal to start him. Doak had eight goal contributions in as mayn UEFA Youth League appearances last season. He is blessed with pace and is a wily fox in the final third, who will look to use his clever style to torment senior defenders.
Deivid Washington (Chelsea)
Chelsea’s summer signing Deivid Washington was reputed for being a clinical goal-scorer for Brazilian side Santos. He scored six goals in 13 appearances for their U20 side and was brought in as a long-term prospect for Chelsea.
However, with the Blues without a goal in their last three games, giving Washington a chance could be fitting. The 18-year-old is reputed to be an efficient finisher and can give Chelsea the unexpected spark they need to get back to winning ways.
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