Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim faces a major summer decision over one of his best players.
The Athletic revealed on Saturday that Amorim told Garnacho to find a new club after the academy graduate openly criticised the coach following the Europa League final defeat.
Garnacho was brought on for only the final 20 minutes in the season-defining clash against Tottenham Hotspur, a move that left him visibly frustrated.
His future now seems to be drifting away from Old Trafford, but here are three powerful reasons why Amorim must offer Garnacho one more chance.
Only behind Lamine Yamal and Desire Doue
The Argentina international has recorded impressive numbers with an underwhelming squad.
His 21 goal contributions this season put him behind only Yamal and Doue among players below the age of 21 across Europe’s top five leagues.
Even with constant changes in management, tactics and formations, Garnacho has remained United’s only consistent attacking threat.
Yes, he has been wasteful in front of goal and his decision-making in the final third needs sharpening. But at just 20 years old, those flaws can be forgiven.
Offers something no other player does
United have a proud tradition of elite wingers like Cristiano Ronaldo, Ryan Giggs and David Beckham.
His ability to stretch opposition defences and inject directness into United’s attack is a rare asset.
He could become a vital tool on the counter-attack, especially in Amorim’s system which currently lacks a player with his profile.
He could also be a deadly weapon during counter-attacks, with Amorim lacking a similar player in his current squad.
His availability is another key factor that Amorim should not ignore.
Garnacho has missed just one of United’s last 104 competitive matches. That kind of availability is priceless.
Yearly scapegoating must stop
There is a worrying trend at United of letting go of the wrong players too soon.
The Red Devils allowed David de Gea to leave in 2023. Andre Onana replaced De Gea and has been a clear downgrade in every sense.
He neither provided security between the sticks nor helped his side play out from the back.
Then there is Scott McTominay, sold in 2024 for a low fee, who went on to score an acrobatic goal that helped Napoli win Serie A.
Garnacho has scored 11 goals this season in a dysfunctional side. If he moves to a better team environment, his numbers could easily double.
United may soon regret letting him go. With proper support, Garnacho has everything needed to become a 20-goal-per-season star.