Ten Hag points out seven key areas Garnacho must improve

PREMIER LEAGUE Ten Hag points out seven key areas Garnacho must improve

Kiplagat Sang • 08:15 - 14.05.2023

The youngster scored the second goal as the Red Devils saw off Wolves to keep Liverpool at arm’s length.

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has pointed out what Alejandro Garnacho needs to work on in order to become a regular starter.

The Argentine made a positive impact upon his return as he scored the second goal when the Red Devils defeated Wolves 2-0 on Saturday.

His involvement in the game came as he made a return from a two-month injury absence. His return coincided with United getting back to winning ways after previous defeats against West Ham United and Brighton.

"Garna, everyone can see it," Ten Hag told reporters. "He came in and did almost everything good, and scored a great goal that will give him belief. It’s good for us for the rest of the season, that he’s back, and can have an impact.

"I’m happy we can bring in young players, and, hopefully, he will progress so quickly that he can compete for a starting XI position, because that is his next challenge."

When he was pressed to explain what the 18-year-old needs to improve on, Ten Hag said, "Making decisions, being aware, scanning situations, when to go one-on-one, get behind, when to go for goal or make an extra pass.

"Decisions like that are what make a good player a top player – that is the difference. But when you see it overall, he’s a huge talent and very brave.

"It shows that the pathway is open for young players at United. And if you work in the right way, work hard, we can guide you to get into the team. But, in the end, it’s about the player – he has to invest and have a plan to do it."

Meanwhile, all three of Garnacho’s Premier League goals this season have come as a substitute, while overall, Manchester United have 11 goals via substitutes in 2022-23, only netting more in 2017-18 (12).