Alejandro Garnacho Should Be Sold, Says Ex-Red Devil

Alejandro Garnacho has been thrust into the spotlight once again after former Manchester United midfielder Paul Parker urged the club to cash in on the 19-year-old winger, claiming his on-field contribution fails to match the hype that surrounds his trademark celebrations.

Alejandro Garnacho faces stinging criticism

Parker, speaking to British media this week, did not mince words when evaluating Garnacho’s impact. The ex-Red Devil accused the Argentina international of focusing “more on Instagram moments than incisive moments,” referencing the youngster’s frequent imitations of Cristiano Ronaldo’s “Siuu” pose. According to Parker, those theatrics ring hollow when they are not backed up by goals and assists.

Why Parker wants United to cash in

The former defender believes Manchester United should consider selling Garnacho while his market value remains high. “United can’t keep waiting forever,” Parker insisted. “If a sizable offer arrives, the club should reinvest in a winger who delivers end product rather than step-overs.” With Financial Fair Play tightening belts across the Premier League, a lucrative sale could boost Erik ten Hag’s rebuilding plans.

Stats paint a mixed picture

Garnacho’s supporters point to flashes of brilliance: an explosive debut goal against Fulham last season, fearless dribbles that lift Old Trafford off its seats and a willingness to track back. Yet the raw numbers reveal only three goals and two assists in 37 senior appearances—figures that strengthen Parker’s critique. By comparison, fellow academy graduate Marcus Rashford notched eight goals during his first 37 outings, while teen sensation Alejandro Garnacho remains stuck in single digits.

Ronaldo celebration debate

Imitating Ronaldo has endeared Garnacho to younger fans, but critics argue it piles needless pressure on a developing player. Parker is adamant: “Stop copying Cristiano and start forging your own path.” Coaching staff at Carrington reportedly echo similar sentiments, encouraging the teenager to refine his decision-making in the final third, especially his crossing and shooting accuracy.

What this means for Manchester United

From the club’s perspective, offloading Garnacho now could help fund moves for a seasoned right-back and a deep-lying midfielder—positions where Ten Hag’s squad still looks fragile. However, letting a home-grown prospect depart carries obvious risks. Sir Alex Ferguson’s long-running mantra—“If you’re good enough, you’re old enough”—suggests patience might pay dividends. Ten Hag has publicly backed Garnacho, praising his “fearless attitude” and hinting that consistency will come with time and coaching.

Meanwhile, Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni continues to include Garnacho in provisional national-team squads, a sign that Albiceleste staff see in him the spark that helped the country capture the 2022 World Cup. Scaloni’s faith complicates any notion that the youngster lacks top-level potential.

Short Opinion

In my view, Parker’s assessment feels harsh but not entirely misplaced. Alejandro Garnacho exudes charisma and raw talent—qualities Old Trafford thrives on—but he must translate flair into final-third production. Selling him now would be premature; nurturing him with clear tactical guidance could yield a future star instead of a transfer regret.