Manchester United supporters are anxious about the potential absence of their star winger, Alejandro Garnacho, at the beginning of the next season. The 19-year-old is set to play in two international tournaments this summer with Argentina, which could delay his return to club duties, impacting Manchester United’s early campaign.
Garnacho had an impressive season with United, becoming a key player. His performances have earned him a call-up to the Argentina national squad for the Copa America, which will take place in the USA from June 20 to July 14. Following this tournament, Garnacho is expected to take a short break before rejoining Manchester United for pre-season training.
However, according to TNT Sports Argentina, Garnacho has also been called up for the Argentina Olympic football team. Former Liverpool player Javier Mascherano, who is managing the Olympic team, has requested Garnacho’s participation in the Paris Olympics. If Argentina reaches the final, the Olympic campaign will run from July 25 to August 9, just one week before the Premier League season starts on August 17.
Impact on Manchester United’s early season
If Garnacho competes in both tournaments, he must recover before returning to Manchester United. He could miss at least the first week of the Premier League season. Additionally, United’s FA Cup victory means they will play in the Community Shield at Wembley the day after the Olympics concludes, further complicating Garnacho’s availability.
Many Manchester United fans have been frustrated by the prospect of missing Garnacho for the initial fixtures. They are concerned about the young player’s heavy workload and the potential impact on his fitness for the upcoming season. The intense schedule of playing in two major tournaments back-to-back could take a toll on Garnacho’s physical condition, raising fears of fatigue or injury.
Despite these concerns, there is a way for Manchester United to ensure Garnacho’s presence at the start of the season. FIFA rules state that professional clubs are not required to release their players for the Olympics, unlike mandatory releases for international tournaments like the Copa America. This means that Manchester United can prevent Garnacho from participating in the Olympics, prioritizing his rest and readiness for the new season.
While some fans might see this as a solution, it places the club in a difficult position. Blocking Garnacho from the Olympics could lead to tension between the player and the club, especially given the honor and prestige of representing one’s country in such a significant event. It also raises questions about the club’s relationship with the Argentina Football Association and the player’s future international opportunities.
On the other hand, allowing Garnacho to play in the Olympics could be seen as a gesture of goodwill towards the player and his national team. It would demonstrate Manchester United’s support for their players’ international ambitions, potentially fostering a positive environment and boosting the player’s morale. However, this comes with the risk of Garnacho returning tired or injured, which could hinder his performance in the Premier League.
Manchester United faces a challenging situation with Alejandro Garnacho’s summer commitments. The decision on whether to allow him to participate in the Olympics will significantly impact their early season preparations. Fans and club officials will watch closely to see how this situation unfolds, hoping for a resolution that benefits the player and team. Balancing the club’s needs with Garnacho’s personal and professional growth will be key in navigating this complex scenario. As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on how Manchester United manages this delicate situation, ensuring the player’s well-being and the team’s success.
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