Javier Mascherano has told Juan Sebastian Veron that he believes Alejandro Garnacho is 'the best young talent in Argentina' - but the experienced pair have urged their younger compatriot against being complacent.
Garnacho earned his first senior cap for Argentina on Thursday, coming off the bench in a 2-0 friendly win over Australia. The 18-year-old did the same again on Monday as the Word champions beat Indonesia by the same scoreline.
Two appearances for his country capped off a brilliant season for the teenager, who burst onto the first-team picture at Manchester United with several scintillating performances off the bench. His 34 appearances - 23 of which were as a substitute - yielded five goals and four assists.
While Garnacho is far from the finished product, he has excited fans all season with his direct style of play. And retired pair Veron and Mascherano have both hailed the young superstar, urging him to continue the hard work.
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"I spoke to Javier Mascherano and he fully expects him [Garnacho] to become a star," Veron told Gambling Zone. "Playing for Manchester United at that age is not easy, but I think he has to have patience.
"He needs to work really hard, because he has the chance to become a regular player for a really big team. I really trust Mascherano’s words, so for him to say he is the best young talent in Argentina is a really big compliment - but it just shows his undoubted quality and he is someone who I am sure has a big future."
Garnacho will enjoy a short break after Monday's friendly against Indonesia before joining back up with the United squad for their pre-season tour of the United States. The teenager is one of several young Reds hoping to impress Erik ten Hag across the pond in the hope of more consistent football next season.
Facundo Pellistri has been in a similar position to Garnacho at United over the past few months, with appearances generally coming from the bench. Amad Diallo, meanwhile, will return from his loan spell at Sunderland with a fresh chance to impress the boss.
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