Manchester United are known for producing some of the biggest talents in the world. Their academy is a home for upcoming stars in world football. Some of these stars play for the first team and achieve their ultimate dream. Marcus Rashford is one such player who is poised to achieve something with the club. In the last few seasons, Manchester United have failed to land big names. Players who were brought in are not performing at their best.
Erik ten Hag likes to work with youngsters from his time at Ajax. His time at Manchester United has seen a lot of ups and downs. However, Ten Hag has still given a chance to young players and a couple of them are playing regular football. One player who has caught the attention of everyone is Argentine sensation, Alejandro Garnacho.
The 19-year-old is one of the biggest talents in the world and a big fan of Cristiano Ronaldo. He has taken his game to another level this season by creating regular chances for his team. Following Jadon Sancho’s departure and Antony’s struggles, the youngster has cemented his place in the starting 11. Here is a look at Garnacho’s stats from the current season.
A confident runner with the ball
In the current season, Garnacho has made 32 appearances combined in the English Premier League, UEFA Champions League and the FA Cup. The Argentine plays on the left flank but in the last few games, he has occupied a spot on the right side.
Alejandro Garnacho averages around 4.9 progressive runs per 90 minutes and completes 58% of his dribbles. His approach is very direct. Garnacho likes to take on defenders and penetrate the opposition penalty box with these runs.
This plot highlights a player’s involvement in moves leading to shots (smspi) versus their ability to progress the ball up the field (Carry). Players in the top right quadrant excel in both shot creation and ball progression, crucial for modern playmaking midfielders or attacking wing-backs. Garnacho is one of the best in the business to carry the ball and these runs often lead to a goal-scoring chance.
The Argentine youngster has shown a high work rate in the final third. He is quick to win the ball back for his team. In the current season, the player averages 4.4 recoveries per 90 minutes and 57% of these were made in the attacking half. Most of the recoveries inside and outside the box have turned into dangerous ones.
Creativity & goal-scoring
Garnacho has scored seven goals in the current campaign for Manchester United. His direct approach has helped him to score six goals in the three major competitions. Alejandro averages 2.75 shots per 90 minutes and 31% of these have been on target. The shot map shows that whenever Garnacho is in the centre of the goal then he carries a lot of threat.
In addition to seven goals, the youngster has four assists to his name. Garnacho creates constant threat as he likes to take on defenders and deliver key passes around the six-yard box. Most of his shot assists have been in the form of cutback.
Alejandro Garnacho has already cemented a place in the starting 11 at Manchester United. He will look to score more goals and create more chances in the remaining season.
Visuals via TFA data viz engine