The winger has yet to succeed with Argentina; however, Saturday's match may be the catalyst for his breakthrough.
It was inevitable that Alejandro Garnacho would continue to divide opinion despite Argentina's flawless start to the Copa America. At least internationally, it has become an accepted practice for Manchester United players.
Fans in Argentina have been divided regarding the adolescent for most of his young career, and this division persists in the initial moments of his debut major tournament.
Even though he has yet to appear on the field, Garnacho is one of Argentina's most frequently discussed players at this Copa America. His teammates have taken care of business, sweeping aside Canada and Chile to commence the Copa America. However, a single concern persists on social media despite Argentina's flawless six-point start.
"Why isn't Garnacho playing?"
Complicated is the response. Nevertheless, Argentina may require their youthful winger to invigorate the attack, particularly in the upcoming third and final group stage game against Peru, following two more challenging victories than anticipated.
Garnacho's career in Argentina thus far
The 2023-24 season was Garnacho's legitimate breakout if the 2022-23 season was not. In a campaign highlighted by the Premier League's Goal of the Season, Garnacho established himself as one of Europe's most dynamic young talents, garnering widespread recognition at Manchester United.
Argentina has not experienced that outbreak. Since his debut just over a year ago, he has earned five caps; however, he has only played 166 minutes in those matches. Although only five minutes were played in competitive matches, they were a brief appearance in a 3-0 victory over Bolivia in the World Cup qualifiers.
There is a straightforward explanation for Garnacho's difficulties in gaining entry into the Argentina XI: This staff is exceedingly proficient.
The profundity of the world champions
Most World Cup champions encounter difficulty in determining when to relinquish control. We have observed it on numerous occasions. Coaches are uncertain about the appropriate time to bid farewell to the individuals who have assisted them in their success and to welcome a new generation in the wake of tournament victories.
This phenomenon has resulted in some quite severe setbacks. Argentina has not yet experienced anything remotely resembling this.
Argentina have only lost one of their 16 encounters since the 2022 World Cup, while they have won each of the other 15. There has been no post-World Cup depression. Since departing Qatar with a trophy, this team has been a buzzsaw that has swept through all in its path.
They have achieved this primarily by relying on the constellations that guided them to their current position. Lionel Messi remains the primary player despite his tenure approaching its conclusion. Lautaro Martinez and Julian Alvarez have risen to the occasion in this tournament, contributing to all three of Argentina's goals from the striker position. Despite his advanced age, Angel Di Maria remains as perplexing as ever on the left.
However, Argentina has occasionally employed Nico Gonzalez of Fiorentina as a substitute for Di Maria, as he is the favored choice in the absence of the veteran winger. Gonzalez is currently the favored candidate over Garnacho. This talented Argentina team is engaged in numerous positional contests throughout the field. Coach Lionel Scaloni must sort through multiple candidates for each position: left-back, right-back, and central midfield.
That may be the most challenging aspect of his current position. Argentina currently has many options, and certain players, such as Garnacho, are compelled to accept more minor roles.
Scaloni's statement
Scaloni was explicitly questioned about Garnacho's exclusion from the lineup, and he maintains that it is a complex decision.
Scaloni stated this week, "I must insert him; otherwise, someone else must be removed." "It is effortless for you, but it is exceedingly challenging for me to make that determination." We would be delighted for him to participate in the game, as he is a young man who provides us with a refreshing perspective. However, when the game plan is devised, he may intend to enter the game, which could result in a change in the outcome.
"He has not yet had the opportunity, but we are optimistic that he will be able to capitalize on it." He poses a challenge for both his colleagues and the coach when he executes the task proficiently.
This statement is reminiscent of a similar one made by Scaloni earlier this month, in which he urged Garnacho to demonstrate greater consistency to eliminate some of Argentina's most talented players from the starting lineup.
Scaloni stated, "We have high expectations for him." "We must progress him in the manner that we deem appropriate, in which the entire staff communicates with him and insists that he perform certain tasks more consistently." He excels in one-on-one situations and is swift. He is required to perform both tasks on a more frequent basis. That is the action we have requested of him.
Is it possible to defeat Peru?
Argentina faces the Saturday match against Peru with a reduced sense of urgency, as they have already secured a place in the knockouts. Although Argentina has achieved two victories thus far, Peru has encountered difficulties, drawing Chile and ultimately losing to Canada in their second match.
Scaloni anticipates implementing modifications for the match, particularly since Messi needs healing. Consequently, this seems an ideal opportunity for Garnacho to demonstrate his readiness for a more significant role in a tournament of this magnitude.
"Garnacho and [Valentin] Carboni may participate," Scaloni stated. "Let us investigate the rationale behind over ten players on the bench." Consequently, it is reasonable to assume that they possess minutes, as they can make valuable contributions.
"The boys who did not participate in these games will participate because I require their presence, and they deserve it."
Argentina's future
Even though the road ahead is relatively favorable for Argentina, the match against Peru serves as a dress rehearsal for the knockout phases.
In their quarterfinal match, Ecuador and Mexico are likely opponents of Garnacho and his team. Meanwhile, Brazil, Colombia, and Uruguay are on opposite sides of the bracket, guaranteeing that Argentina will not encounter them until the finals.
Before those knockouts, Garnacho can assume a more significant role in the Peru game. Garnacho is expected to compete with Gonzalez for the remaining minutes in the wide position, although Di Maria is the more probable starter.
This narrative is worth following. Garnacho has yet to achieve significant success for Argentina, as he has had only a few opportunities to do so. Saturday may be the opportunity he has been anticipating. The question is, is it possible for him to grasp it?
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