Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has warned Jadon Sancho and Antony that the emergence of teenage talent Alejandro Garnacho might lead to their dismissal.
Since taking over at Old Trafford last summer, the Dutchman has not been afraid to be ruthless, and he recently stripped Harry Maguire of his leadership and replaced him with Bruno Fernandes. Furthermore, it has been reported that Ten Hag may bench two big-money additions, Sancho and Antony, in favor of Garnacho next season.
The 19-year-old made 34 appearances for United last season, scoring ten goals before suffering an ankle injury and missing two months of play near the conclusion of the season. In instance, Antony scored 11 goals in 44 games after signing for £81.3 million from Ajax, while Sancho scored 10 in 46 games.
Both players have been chastised for their performances, and Sancho has been linked with a move elsewhere. Former Premier League striker Gabriel Agbonlahor believes Garnacho will keep Antony and Sancho out of the starting lineup next season as he develops.
“I really like him, he’s such a talented winger,” Agbonlahor told Football Insider. “And Man United need that. I must admit, I’d totally forgotten about him during his injury last season. But United need that competition for places.
“I think he can take the fight for that right-wing slot. He’ll pile the pressure on Antony and on Sancho to take that spot because Rashford will have that left side locked down. I can see him breaking into the side, keeping Antony and Sancho out, and scoring a lot of goals for Man United.”
Garnacho signed a new long-term deal with United back in April and it is clear the club believe he will play a key role for many years to come. “Alejandro has really dedicated himself to achieving the objectives that the club set out for him since he arrived in Manchester,” United’s football director John Murtough said.
“His talent, drive and determination to succeed saw him quickly progress from our Academy into the first team, and this new long-term contract reflects our confidence in him to continue his exciting development under the guidance of Erik and his staff.
“Alejandro has huge potential, and we are all looking forward to working with him to ensure he can fulfil his ambitions here at Manchester United in the coming years.” And Ten Hag is also a huge fan, hailing his talent and potential after he scored against Wolves in his first game back from injury against Wolves in May.
“Garna, everyone can see it,” Ten Hag said. “He came in and did almost everything good, and scored a great goal that will give him belief. One of the aspects of the biggest talent is that they are mature. First, they take responsibility then second, they are mature to bring in the skills and have belief that they can dominate opponents.
“Once again, he did it. He has had a big impact in many games: whether starting or coming on, he’s straight into the game and that’s so important for the squad. 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.”