After their 3-0 win against Everton on Sunday, Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag quickly shut down a question comparing Alejandro Garnacho’s goal to those of former Manchester United players. The 19-year-old produced an incredible bicycle kick just three minutes into the Premier League clash, setting the tone for United’s best result of the season at Goodison Park.
Ten Hag, who was serving a one-match suspension, watched on from the directors’ box and later refused to entertain the idea of comparing Garnacho to Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo’s legacy at Old Trafford. Instead, he emphasized the need for consistency and hard work from the young player in order to fulfill his high potential.
While addressing the media, Ten Hag did not hold back in praising Garnacho’s stunning strike, declaring it as an instant Goal of the Season contender. He commended the entire team for their excellent start to the game and labeled Garnacho’s finish as world-class, hailing it as a magnificent moment on the pitch.
In addition to Garnacho’s standout performance, 18-year-old Kobbie Mainoo also caught the eye after receiving his first Premier League start. Ten Hag expressed his confidence in Mainoo and emphasized the need for player development in the team’s transitional phase. He acknowledged Mainoo’s maturity and commended his performance in the match.
With a must-win Champions League trip to Galatasaray ahead, Ten Hag highlighted the importance of deserving opportunities and praised Mainoo’s resilience in bouncing back from a pre-season injury. He affirmed the club’s commitment to developing young talent and emphasized the maturity and determination shown by the emerging players.
As Manchester United continues to navigate through a transitional phase, the emphasis on nurturing young talent and instilling a sense of maturity and consistency in their players remains a focal point for Ten Hag and his coaching staff. The remarkable performances of Garnacho and Mainoo serve as a testament to the club’s dedication to fostering the next generation of football talent at Old Trafford.