Manchester United's group is stronger this season but there is a small issue that could bubble over if not addressed
Alejandro Garnacho during his time at Manchester United
Alejandro Garnacho left Man United under a cloud in the summer(Image: Qin Zhicheng/VCG via Getty Images)
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Ruben Amorim's time at Manchester United will not be remembered fondly, particularly since the turnaround under Michael Carrick. But one thing United supporters will remain grateful for is Amorim's no-nonsense approach to discipline. One of the chief offenders was academy graduate Alejandro Garnacho.
Whether it was openly criticising the coach after the Europa League final, storming off the pitch after being substituted or posting on social media pictures in another team's kit, Garnacho did everything to rile supporters. Amorim could see this situation needed addressing and he made sure to do just that. The winger was sold to Chelsea for £40m, bagging the Reds a tidy profit on a player who has since underperformed.
United are now seeing the benefits of Amorim's work on team dynamics, with the squad full of more good eggs than bad ones. That does not mean the Reds are immune from problems repeating themselves.
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On Tuesday, Amad will have concerned fans with his post on Snapchat. Sharing a picture of himself celebrating for United, the Ivorian captioned the post: "What is meant to grow does not stay in the same place forever." The vague statement came just days after Amad was dropped by Carrick for the first time to make room for the in form Benjamin Sesko.
The timing from Amad was off, especially after United's best run of the season by some stretch. It was not a good look for a player who has struggled recently, before his cameo against Crystal Palace.
Unless there is an injury between now and kick off, Amad will find himself on the bench again at Newcastle and shall be forced to wait until a week on Sunday for his next shot at a starting spot. Of course, there could be an innocent explanation for Amad's post and we are far away from the forward becoming the next Garnacho.
Not least because of Carrick's rave review following the Palace win. "He's another one, Amad, who is such a dream to work with," the interim boss explained.
"His attitude is so positive. He wants to learn, he wants to keep pushing.
"He asks for more - 'what can I do more?' or 'how can I improve?' He is desperate to do well and has been a huge part of the team."
But what this is, is another test for Carrick. After Newcastle, United have just nine matches remaining this season.
This is not enough games to keep everyone happy so naturally, those on the bench will be desperate to break into the starting line-up. Especially Amad, considering his hopes of reaching the World Cup rely on regular minutes.
His social media activity was clumsy and Carrick may not want to address it with Amad directly. But we have seen how these things can escalate and the former midfielder will be desperate to ensure the winger is fully immersed in this team and the project, even if he is not starting week in, week out.
Carrick's man-management skills will be put firmly to the test between now and the end of the season to stop any player revolts. If United's interim head coach can keep this squad together, their aims can be comfortably achieved.
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