Following Manchester United’s goalless draw against Manchester City on April 6, 2025, much of the post-match discussion has focused on the performance of young winger Alejandro Garnacho. Despite entering the game with high expectations, Garnacho failed to leave a strong impression, leading to widespread criticism from both fans and football analysts.
The Argentine winger showed a glimpse of promise in the opening moments of the match. Within the first minute, he won a free-kick just outside the City penalty area, sparking hope that he might produce a lively and influential display. However, that early spark quickly faded as the game unfolded. Garnacho struggled to assert himself on the pitch and found it difficult to consistently trouble City’s defense. One of the most disappointing moments of his performance came when he missed a clear-cut opportunity from close range, a chance that could have dramatically shifted the momentum of the tightly contested fixture in United’s favor.
This lackluster outing is not an isolated incident in Garnacho’s recent run of games. In a previous UEFA Europa League clash against Real Sociedad, football legend and former Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes criticized Garnacho’s body language and attitude. Scholes remarked, “He looks like he is sulking a bit… I’m not having the fatigue thing,” suggesting that Garnacho’s perceived lack of energy and intensity was more a matter of mentality than physical tiredness. The criticism emphasized growing concerns about the winger’s consistency and overall contribution to the team.
Fans have echoed these concerns on social media and other platforms, expressing disappointment at Garnacho’s inability to rise to the occasion during crucial moments. Many supporters believe that, considering the number of chances he has been given to cement his place in the starting eleven, Garnacho should be doing more to justify the faith shown in him by the coaching staff. Matches like the derby against Manchester City, where moments of brilliance are needed to break the deadlock, only magnify the scrutiny on players like him.
As Manchester United continues to chase higher league positions and improved results, the demand for consistent, top-level performances from all squad members grows. For Garnacho, the remainder of the season presents a crucial opportunity to prove his worth and develop into the dependable attacking threat the club hopes he can become. Whether he can rise to that challenge remains to be seen, but what is certain is that the spotlight will be firmly fixed on his next performances.
