Manchester United took revenge on Aston Villa after Sunday’s 1-3 drubbing to advance to the fourth round of the Carabao Cup with a resounding 4-2 victory.
All six goals came in a breathless second half in which United had to come back from a goal down on two separate occasions.
United’s goals came from Anthony Martial, Marcus Rashford, Bruno Fernandes and Scott McTominay. Fernandes’ return to the team was a major factor behind United’s impressive victory.
Garnacho the star
But the player who shone the most despite only spending 30 minutes on the pitch was Alejandro Garnacho. He assisted on goals from Fernandes and McTominay and the latter was a beauty.
According to Statman Dave on Twitter, “At 18 years and 133 days, Alejandro Garnacho becomes the youngest player to assist 2 goals in a game for Manchester United.”
At 18 years and 133 days, Alejandro Garnacho becomes the youngest player to assist 2 goals in a match for Manchester United.
Dynamo. ???? pic.twitter.com/qQxNnPnJFs
— Statman Dave (@StatmanDave) November 10, 2022
He was electric on the left wing, he wasn’t afraid to take on his man and he could go either left or right. He was not only skilful, but also mature beyond his years, which can be evidenced in his first pass to Fernandes to place United’s third.
The statistics speak for themselves. She had 100 percent passing accuracy and completed two of these three dribbles. She also created two great chances and completed a cross.
Erik ten Hag had spoken of his need to improve defensively and he did, winning three duels on the ground in the process.
And the coach was effusive in his praise for the young Argentine.
“It was good for him to come in and show that performance and have that impact on the game, to be able to assist, dribble and run behind,” Ten Hag said late in the game.
It’s been a memorable couple of weeks for the 18-year-old. He made his full debut for United in both the Europa League and Premier League and scored his first senior goal for the club against Real Sociedad.
Sancho could stay behind
And his displays will make it even harder for Jadon Sancho to return to United’s first team. The England international has struggled in recent months with his hesitation and hesitation to take on his man.
Garnacho doesn’t have that fear and that has been a great help for the Red Devils. His attitude at the beginning of the season was questioned by both the coach and Fernandes and it is safe to say that he has responded in the best way possible.
Ten Hag has now thrown down the gauntlet and challenged the academy star to go on and take a regular spot in the side.
“It depends on your approach, your attitude. When he continues to work then it is possible (to play more). You want to improve every day and you have to do things right in your lifestyle. He has the ability.”
United fans will expect the same from their latest budding superstar. Garnacho has the world at his feet and all he has to do is keep working hard.
