Alejandro Garnacho admits he's 'different' to long-time idol Cristiano Ronaldo as Man Utd academy graduate gives honest update on his future

The Argentine's adoration for Ronaldo has been well-documented, and they played together for a brief period at United in the 2022-23 season. However, in a press conference this week, the young winger has claimed that he is "different" to the Portugal captain, noting the contrasts between Old Trafford during CR7's heyday and the club today.

Garnacho has typically been one of United's better performers in recent seasons, although this campaign has been a difficult one for him. Nevertheless, the 20-year-old has bags of potential and a recent strike against Brentford took him to 24 United goal involvements in all competitions, one away from matching the tally Ronaldo set before he reached the age of 21.

Asked about being compared with his hero, Garnacho said: “I’m not focused on the numbers. I think when Cristiano played here, he was a different footballer, [they were] a different type of games."

Garnacho has been linked with a summer transfer, but when quizzed on his future, the attacker added: "Yeah, obviously as a footballer, you always going to hear some rumours about the future. But I have a contract here until 2028, so I’m happy here."

The United youngster has a golden opportunity to win a first European trophy as the Red Devils eye up a potential Europa League final against fellow Premier League underperformers Tottenham Hotspur. First, though, Amorim's team must do the job against Athletic Club in the semi-final second leg and secure their entry into the final, having won the first leg in Spain 3-0.