Few Premier League players spark debate among fans more strongly than Alejandro Garnacho. He controversially left Manchester United for Chelsea, but has now moved on to Aston Villa after just one season at Stamford Bridge.
Even before leaving the Red Devils, the Argentine didn't always endear himself to the Old Trafford faithful. Most notably, he upset many supporters when spotted wearing a Villa shirt after Marcus Rashford had joined the West Midlands club on loan.
There was naturally a lot more anger when he joined the Blues from Man Utd, and even neutral fans seem to often take issue with his public persona. Having now agreed to join Aston Villa on loan, in a move with a conditional obligation to buy next summer, it's interesting to learn how those at Chelsea really felt about him.
Chelsea True Feelings on Garnacho
Alejandro Garnacho neck tattoo
Alejandro Garnacho neck tattoo
As reported by the Daily Mail, due to his reputation, employees at Cobham were unsure what to expect with Garnacho. However, it claimed that he was actually well-liked by those at Chelsea. Journalist Kieran Gill explained:
"Like all of us, they had heard the stories, had seen how it ended at United, and were aware he arrived with a reputation.
Yet speak to those sources today and you will find they rather liked the lad. He is described as shy and misunderstood, and we are reminded that he arrived at Chelsea at the age of 21."
The same report also noted that Garnacho missed pre-season due to the timing of his transfer to Chelsea, and then ended up playing under three head coaches in nine months. This may explain why he struggled to truly shine at Stamford Bridge, still scoring a respectable eight goals while getting four assists in 43 games across 2025/26.
The report goes on to note how 'Chelsea tried to help Garnacho along the way', while highlighting former coach Liam Rosenior's efforts. It's said that the Englishman 'felt a particular need to try to protect his player, sensing he was someone who preferred an arm around him.'
In one press conference, when asked why Garnacho was booed wherever he went, Rosenior defended the player, replying: "I don't understand why that happens. Maybe it’s because he can be such a threat."
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Garnacho Hopes To Do Better at Villa Than He Did at Chelsea
Chelsea's Alejandro Garnacho
It's interesting to note that Garnacho doesn't appear to have been that impressed by his own form at Chelsea last season either. When speaking to Aston Villa after his move was confirmed, he spoke about wanting to rediscover the player he was at Man United.
“I’m really happy to be here. I can’t wait to start on the pitch. It’s an important club that is growing really quickly, so I can’t wait to get started," Garnacho said before adding:
“I was looking for a club to get confidence at and to try to be the player I was in my first years at Manchester United. I spoke with the manager and I think he will give me the confidence to be here and to help the team.”
He also spoke about being keen to play in the Champions League, saying: “It’s important to play in European competitions. The Champions League is the best one, so we’re going to play in that this season. I’m really happy about that and hopefully we can do something important.”
Chelsea failed to secure European football last term, finishing 10th in the Premier League.