FOOTBALL
Posted on February 12, 2026 9:00 pm | Updated on February 12, 2026 6:04 pm
Joe Cole has stepped in to defend Alejandro Garnacho after growing criticism around the player’s slow start at Chelsea. The former Blues star thinks that talks of a transfer mistake is too early. He insists the young Argentine still has huge potential to rise at Stamford Bridge.
Former Chelsea Star Joe Cole Praises Garnacho And Slams Early Doubts
Ex-Chelsea star Joe Cole did not hold back when asked about the noise surrounding Alejandro Garnacho. The former **Blues**‘ midfielder made it clear he sees far more than the numbers currently show. While everyone have questioned whether Chelsea made a mistake signing the Manchester United winger. But, Cole offered a strong response.
He said: “I would love to coach Alejandro Garnacho. He’s such a super-talented footballer.
“The sky‘s the limit. He could be anything, he really could. I’d love to go through his clips. There’s a few technical things he can do better from a coaching performance in both boxes.
“Because he’s not like an old-fashioned winger or a number 10, he’s a wing forward. There’s a massive scope if he puts himself in better positions.
“But I also think he might need a little arm around his shoulder and a little bit of maturity in terms of how to conduct yourself as a footballer.”
Garnacho arrived in west London last summer in a deal worth £40 million from Man United. So far, the move has not clicked. Garnacho has managed just one Premier League goal this season. His confidence looked fragile when he was taken off at half-time during the comeback win against West Ham in January. However, Cole remains firm on his thoughts on the Argentine.
🚨🔵 Joe Cole on Garnacho:
"There’s a massive scope if he puts himself in better positions. But I also think he might need a little arm around his shoulder and a little bit of maturity in terms of how to conduct yourself as a footballer."
(@LloydCanfield) #CFC pic.twitter.com/YDCUQRqw1q
— Just Chelsea (@justcfc) February 10, 2026
Pressure Mounts After Mixed Performances
There is no hiding from the fact that Garnacho is struggling for form. After that tough night against West Ham, head coach Liam Rosenior used him from the bench in the following two matches. Then came the 2-2 draw with Leeds United, where Garnacho did not get on the pitch at all. That call has fueled new claims that the Blues may have made the wrong signing.
Competition is fierce in Chelsea’s attack. Several wide players are pushing for minutes, and that battle has made it hard for Garnacho to settle. At 21, he is still learning his game. Cole believes that is exactly why patience matters. The former England international feels Garnacho must feel ‘free’ on the pitch rather than weighed down by pressure and criticism.
The West London club currently sit fifth in the Premier League. They are only one point behind Man United, who were held to a draw by West Ham. Now, every point counts in the race for Champions League football. Given that, every performance is judged sharply. But Cole’s message is that, young players need time, especially when adapting to a new club and system.
FA Cup Chance Offers Fresh Opportunity
The upcoming FA Cup clash with Hull City could offer Garnacho the stage. With squad rotation likely, he may get a chance to start and regain confidence. A strong game against the Championship side would ease some of the tension surrounding his move.
Chelsea’s season has already seen change and uncertainty. They finished fourth last campaign and lifted the Europa Conference League under Enzo Maresca. But, the manager got dismissed on New Year’s Day. That change has brought new ideas and fresh demands. Adjusting in the middle of that transition is not simple for any player, especially a young football player still finding consistency.
Cole’s backing carries weight. He understands the pressures of playing at Stamford Bridge. He knows how quickly opinion can change. For Garnacho, the challenge is to block out the criticism and take the opportunity with belief. He needs to play with courage.
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