Alejandro Garnacho has certainly made his mark in the Manchester United first team this season.
After impressing on his full debut in the 3-0 Europa League win over FC Sheriff last month, the Argentine netted his first senior goal a week later in the 1-0 triumph at Real Sociedad. And following his full Premier League debut against Aston Villa last Sunday, the 18-year-old recorded two assists in the 4-2 revenge win in the League Cup on Thursday.
With Antony, Cristiano Ronaldo and Jadon Sancho out against Fulham on Sunday, Garnacho could be handed another league start. United will be eager for Garnacho to continue his development, and boss Erik ten Hag has challenged him to continue his rise.
READ MORE: Manchester United squad vs Fulham revealed
Speaking in his press conference, the Dutchman said: “We have talked a lot now about Garnacho. That is the question: can he stay in this development? Can he keep that line, [that] pattern of improving? Then he can contribute.”
While fans will be urging Garnacho to continue his fine form, it may set alarm bells ringing for Anthony Elanga. The winger had a breakthrough season under Ralf Rangnick last term but has failed to hit the same heights under Ten Hag.
After netting a Champions League goal and earning his Sweden debut last campaign, Elanga has started just five games this season. His assist in the 2-1 win over Liverpool is his only goal contribution of the season and he has only started two league games since the start of September.
What's more, he’s failed to see out a full 90 minutes since the final day loss to Crystal Palace last term. He’s racked up a handful of minutes in recent weeks due to injuries to the front line.
Antony, Sancho and Anthony Martial have all suffered setbacks while Ronaldo was also suspended for one match. However, the situation next summer could look bleak for Elanga should Garnacho continue to deliver.
By the start of next season, the hope - and likelihood - is that United will have a new striker. Presuming Ronaldo will have left by then, it means the Reds will still be covered if Martial’s injury problems persist.
Marcus Rashford will, therefore, be favoured on the left wing while Antony will hog the right flank. It would leave Sancho and Garnacho fighting for their spot and Elanga with very few game-time opportunities.
As a result, he may need to seek a loan spell away in order to prevent his own career progression from being stunted. He can use several past and present United players as examples of what benefits this can bring.
Alex Telles secured a temporary move away to Sevilla during the summer in a bid to save his World Cup hopes with Brazil and it has paid off, with the defender on his way to Qatar after being named in Tite’s squad.
James Garner produced the goods for Nottingham Forest in last season’s promotion campaign while Amad is progressing nicely at Sunderland. Elanga may have to bite his pride and do what is best for his career if Garnacho continues his upwards trajectory.
READ NEXT:
