Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has come to the defense of Alejandro Garnacho, a young star under heavy scrutiny this season.
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Amid accusations of having “the decision-making of a cat,” Ferdinand passionately urged fans and pundits to be patient with the 20-year-old, who has shown flashes of brilliance but struggled for consistency.
A Tough Season for Garnacho and United
Manchester United’s dismal start to the Premier League season has left them sitting 12th in the table, amplifying the pressure on every player. Garnacho, the club’s top scorer this season with seven goals in 19 appearances, has been one of the focal points of criticism.
The scrutiny intensified after Ruben Amorim’s managerial debut against Ipswich Town, a game in which Garnacho had a quiet performance.
Despite his subdued showing, the Red Devils managed a 1-1 draw, thanks in large part to Andre Onana’s exceptional saves and Amad Diallo’s strong performance as a wingback.
Stephen Howson’s Critique and Ferdinand’s Defense
Speaking on Rio Ferdinand Presents, United fan Stephen Howson was critical of Garnacho, arguing that his decision-making was poor and suggesting he be dropped from the starting lineup.
“Garnacho has the decision-making of a cat. It’s awful,” Howson said, proposing a front-three of Amad Diallo, Bruno Fernandes, and Rasmus Højlund instead.
A disbelieving Ferdinand was quick to interrupt, staunchly defending the Argentinian winger.
“Don’t talk about Garnacho like that. You can’t be perfect, he’s a kid, man!” Ferdinand said. “No one else is running back, no one’s running in behind the opposition. I’d play Garnacho on the left.”
Challenges Off the Pitch
Garnacho’s recent struggles have not been confined to the field. He faced confrontation and heckling from a supporter outside Old Trafford before a Europa League match, an incident that reportedly left him feeling down.
This sentiment was evident when he refrained from celebrating a stunning goal against Leicester City.
Bruno Fernandes later revealed that Garnacho was affected by the incident, but this only fueled further criticism.
“If he’s getting affected by that, I would say to him, just as an older pro: ‘I don’t think this football game is for you, big man,’” said ex-striker Troy Deeney, while United legend Roy Keane expressed similar disappointment.
A Bright Future Amid Growing Pains
Despite the criticism, Ferdinand emphasized the need for perspective. Garnacho is still developing, and the transition to Ruben Amorim’s system, which demands significant tactical adjustments, will take time.
“This is a process. We can’t expect them to look like Amorim’s Sporting team now. It’s impossible,” Ferdinand added.
Opportunity to Prove Himself
Garnacho’s next opportunity to respond to his critics will come in Manchester United’s Europa League clash against Bodø/Glimt on Thursday.
With Ferdinand and other supporters rallying behind him, the young talent has a chance to silence doubters and further establish his place in United’s evolving system.
As United rebuild under Amorim, Garnacho’s resilience and growth will be key—not only for the team’s success but for the winger’s long-term career at the club.
