Erik ten Hag issues challenge to Alejandro Garnacho to show he has the 'X-factor' at Man Utd

The young winger made a name for himself after a stellar performance for the Red Devils in the 2023-24 campaign as he appeared in 50 matches across all competitions where he scored 10 times and provided five assists. His impressive performance for his club earned him a call-up to the Argentina national team for Copa America 2024.

In the current season, Garnacho has featured in the two games United have played thus far. While he came off the bench in both matches, he did have an impact on the team as he scored in the Community Shield clash against Manchester City and provided the assist for Joshua Zirkzee's strike against Fulham in their Premier League season opener.

Manager Ten Hag is satisfied with the youngster's efforts but he has also urged the player to continue his hard work and prove that he has the 'X-factor' to become one of the best players in the world.

Speaking to reporters, the Dutch manager said, "A world-class player? He has to go a long way. He has high potential. He showed last season he can contribute and be a starting XI player. To make the jump and become a world-class player, it starts with very hard work. That brought him to where he is now and that will bring him to being that world-class player. I agree he has the potential.

"Every club at the top needs players with the X-factor. Garnacho has it in him to become that player. We’ve already seen on occasions that he has shown the X-factor, so if you want to be that player that people are saying is world-class, then you have to do it consistently. He has that skill."

He added, "You have to prove it, show it every day on the training pitch and in every minute you can get. It’s not only about the starters, it’s also about the finishers. I was very pleased last week that Zirkzee and Garnacho made the difference.

"One gave the assist and the other made the goal. That’s what we need across the whole season. You don’t win with 11 players in a game, you need more than 11 players to win games."

After making a winning start to their 2024-25 campaign, the Manchester club will be back in action on Saturday as they take on Brighton away from home.