Manchester United might have to make do without the services of Alejandro Garnacho during the opening weeks of the 2024-25 Premier League season due to his participation in the Olympics, according to a report.
The talented young winger has become a crucial part of Man United's first team, standing out as one of only two teenagers across Europe's top five leagues to have contributed to 15 goals and assists this season.
Garnacho recently scored the opening goal in United's FA Cup final victory over Manchester City and bagged the Goal of the Season award for his spectacular overhead kick against Everton back in November last year.
The teenager surpassed the 3000-minute mark this season and impressively started 38 consecutive matches in both league and cup competitions since November.
Garnacho, who has been growing in influence for the Red Devils, is also gaining recognition on the international stage and has been called up to the Argentina national team for the Copa America.
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Garnacho called up to Argentina squad for Copa America and Paris Olympics
According to TNT Sport Argentina, in addition to making the Copa America squad, Javier Mascherano has now requested that Garnacho be made available for the Olympic Games in Paris this summer.
The report adds that "a decision is awaited", suggesting that Man United are yet to make a call on the matter.
It is understood that the Argentine manager is also awaiting responses from Chelsea for Enzo Fernandez and Aston Villa for Emiliano Martinez.
Clubs retain the option to prevent their players from being called up and Arsenal are prepared to exercise this option with William Saliba.
The final of the Copa America will be played on July 15, while Argentina's opening game for the Olympics is set for July 25 and the gold medal match will take place on August 9; the new Premier League season commences on August 16.
As a result, if Argentina advances deep into the tournament, Garnacho will require a rest in mid to late August, making it unlikely for him to participate in United's early season matches.
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Man United face difficult decision over Garnacho call-up
The Red Devils now face a difficult decision. While the club stands to gain from Garnacho's involvement at the start of the season, permitting him to compete in the Olympics could help his growth as a player and fulfil his individual desire to represent his country on the biggest stages.
One of Sir Jim Ratcliffe's most pressing tasks, though, is to ensure the relentless injury issues that plagued Erik ten Hag's squad last season do not occur again next term.
The Dutchman endured over 60 instances of injury or illness to his players, which significantly impacted the team's performance throughout the 2023-24 campaign.
United are expected to be busy in the transfer window as they look to bolster their squad following a very poor league campaign, which saw them finish in eighth place.
Devesh Jaganath
