Garnacho has posted higher goal contributions than Ronaldo did at his age, although he has played more games
Alejandro Garnacho has dismissed comparisons to Manchester United legend Cristiano Ronaldo, saying that “he was a different footballer”.
The 20-year-old Argentine, who has become one of United’s brightest sparks in an otherwise turbulent season, addressed the media this week alongside his manager, and waved away suggestions that he’s following the exact same path as his idol.
Garnacho and Ronaldo briefly shared a dressing room at Old Trafford during the 2022-23 season, and has been known to perform a lot of the Portuguese star’s celebrations. But the young forward was quick to highlight their differences in both style and period.
“I’m not focused on the numbers. I think when Cristiano played here, he was a different footballer, [they were] a different type of games,” Garnacho said.
Despite not chasing records, Garnacho’s recent goal against Brentford – a thumping finish into the top right corner from distance – brought his tally of goal involvements this season to 21, one more than Ronaldo’s output at the same age, although having played more matches.
Manchester United need wiggle room in the transfer market for a squad rebuild. It is understood that the club are willing to sell Garnacho if there valuation of the youngster is matched, with his sale expected to generate pure profit to enable the club scale PSR hurdles. Several top European clubs, including Napoli and Chelsea, are reportedly monitoring the Argentine’s development, but Garnacho made his intentions clear.
“Yeah, obviously as a footballer, you always going to hear some rumours about the future. But I have a contract here until 2028, so I’m happy here,” said Garnacho.
Under Amorim, United’s league campaign has been underwhelming but the club harbours some hopes of ending the season on a high. United are eyeing a spot in the UEFA Europa League final after convincingly beating Athletic Club 3-0 in the first leg of their semifinal tie, and Garnacho could win his first European title if they go all the way.
