14 March 2023 , 14:43
685
0
Alejandro Granacho is facing up to several weeks out with an injury picked up in Manchester United's goalless draw with Southampton.
Garnacho came on in the second-half of Sunday's stalemate but had to be substituted after sustaining the injury in a challenge from Saints defender Kyle Walker-Peters. United have not confirmed how long the injury will keep Garnacho out for, but the Argentina winger confirmed he will miss their next two games, as well as the upcoming international break.
The 18-year-old was primed for his first appearance for the world champions, after deciding on his international allegiances earlier this month. Garnacho is eligible for both Argentina and Spain, having been born in Madrid to an Argentine mother.
He was called up to Lionel Scaloni’s squad in 2022, but didn’t make an appearance, meaning the option to play for Spain - whom he represented at under-18 level - was open. Garnacho had been selected for the upcoming friendlies with Curacao and Panama, but is now set to miss out.
Writing on his official Instagram account Garnacho, who left Old Trafford on crutches on Sunday, said: It is difficult to put into words how I’m feeling right now.
Marcel Sabitzer completes Man Utd transfer after last-minute deadline day dash
“Unfortunately I will not be able to help my team and team mates in the upcoming games in what is a very important part of the season for us at Manchester United.
Alejandro Garnacho suffered a nasty-looking injury against Southampton (Manchester United via Getty Images)“I am disappointed to also miss the opportunity to be with my team mates of the Argentinian National Team in what would have been a great and proud moment for me and my family.
“This is part of football and our profession, however, I am already focused in my recovery. God has taught me to never give up and I will make sure I am back stronger than ever!”
The loss of Garnacho is a blow to United boss Erik ten Hag, who is also without Anthony Martial, Christian Eriksen and Donny van de Beek.
Garnacho left Old Trafford on crutches on SundayMartial is back in training but not yet fit for selection, Eriksen could be back by the end of next month, while Van de Beek is out for the season. Marcel Sabitzer and Victor Lindelof were also missing at the weekend, but could return to action this week.
United fly to Spain today for tomorrow's decisive second leg of their Europa League last 16 tie, with Ten Hag's side leading 4-1 from the first leg.
Casmerio, sent off at the weekend and suspended for United's next four domestic games, is available, but is a booking away from missing the first leg of the quarter-final, should Ten Hag's side progress.