I know that you don’t really rate me as manager but it is clearly obvious that you are wasting his talent. You are using him in the wrong position and that’s why he lacked impact in the game against Ipswich Town” – This is according to Ruud Van Nisterooy as he urges Ruben Amorim to rethink his approach regarding a Manchester United player, with critics suggesting he is underutilizing the player’s “raw talent” in the wrong position. A positional adjustment has been proposed to maximize the player’s impact on the team. Please listen to him Amorim 🥹🙏 You have to adjust your tactics to suit all of our players 🥹🙏
Alejandro Garnacho, one of Manchester United’s most promising young players, has become a focal point of discussions following Ruben Amorim’s debut as the club’s manager. While Garnacho’s potential has been praised by football icons like Sergio Aguero, questions linger about whether Amorim’s tactical setup can fully unlock the Argentine’s talents. These concerns intensified after Manchester United’s recent 1-1 draw against Ipswich Town, a game where Amorim deployed his signature 3-4-3 formation—a strategy that previously brought him success at Sporting CP.
In Amorim’s system, Garnacho played as one of two attacking midfielders supporting Marcus Rashford, while Diogo Dalot and Amad Diallo took on the roles of wing-backs. However, critics argue this positioning does not capitalize on Garnacho’s strengths. Pundit Robbie Savage, during a discussion on BBC Radio 5 Live, questioned the decision, suggesting that Garnacho is far more effective in a wider role. Savage commented, “I don’t think Ruben Amorim’s system suits Alejandro Garnacho. He was positioned as one of the number tens, but I believe he’s better suited as a wing-back.” This sentiment aligns with the views of many who see Garnacho as a dynamic player best utilized on the flanks, where he can exploit space and make a greater impact.
Despite these reservations, Sergio Aguero, an Argentine legend and former Manchester City star, has spoken in Garnacho’s defense. Reflecting on the 20-year-old’s progress, Aguero emphasized the need for patience and support as Garnacho continues to develop. In an interview with the Manchester Evening News, Aguero remarked, “People often forget how young Alejandro is. He’s already demonstrated his value in the Premier League at such a young age. With the right guidance and support from his teammates, his future is incredibly bright.” Aguero’s perspective carries weight, given his extensive career at the sport’s highest level.
Garnacho’s performances this season have only added to the excitement surrounding his potential. He is currently United’s leading scorer, boasting seven goals and four assists across all competitions. These 11 goal contributions underscore his growing influence, even as he works to address occasional inconsistencies. One particularly memorable moment was his subdued reaction after scoring in United’s 3-0 victory over Leicester, a gesture that sparked discussions about his maturity and focus.
Amorim’s arrival has introduced a new tactical philosophy and reignited debates about how best to utilize Garnacho. While the 3-4-3 system has proven successful in the past, tailoring it to fit Manchester United’s squad—and to maximize Garnacho’s abilities—may require adjustments. Garnacho’s stint as a No. 10 has been met with mixed reviews, but his versatility and potential remain key assets for the team.
As the season unfolds, Garnacho’s role under Amorim will continue to be closely examined. Whether he is redeployed as a winger or adapts to his central role, his ability to perform consistently will be vital to Manchester United’s success. For now, Garnacho represents a beacon of hope for the club during a transitional period, with the support of figures like Aguero underscoring his immense talent and
promise.
