Andy Cole expects Alejandro Garnacho to become an all-time great at Manchester United.
The clamour for the 18-year-old to be given a chance in the senior team started at the back end of last season following his exploits in the FA Youth Cup. While Garnacho made his debut before the season’s close, he had to wait until the current campaign to become a household name.
Erik ten Hag trusted the winger throughout the failed Europa League campaign and fans saw glimpses of the youngster’s potential. Despite setting up the winner against Manchester City in January, Ten Hag has resisted the urge to throw Garnacho into the first-team picture each week, preferring to nurture him slowly.
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Ex-striker Cole has been wowed by the Argentine’s performances so far. Speaking to William Hill, the former United favourite backed Garnacho to go one step further next season.
“I think Garnacho has a fantastic future ahead of him if he can keep his head down,” Cole said. “He’s going to have a big future. Everyone is talking about him because he’s very direct, he’s not afraid to get the ball and take players on. In today’s game, you don’t see as much of that.
“A lot of young kids come into the team and just do what they’re good at. The manager has tried to blood him in slowly, but I think next season will be a really big season for him."
However, Cole did not show the same enthusiasm for big-money arrival Antony. Ten Hag raided his former club Ajax to sign the Brazilian last summer but he has endured an underwhelming campaign.
Cole added: “I think the jury is still out on Antony. He cost a hell of a lot of money and we’ve only seen him do well in flashes, but as you know flashes are not enough in the Premier League. It’s only his first season so I think next season will be his biggest season.
“If he can produce then it will be a totally different conversation. This season, he’s been in and out. I think some of the things he tries on the pitch you turn and say to yourself ‘I’m not sure about this’.”
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