Given that Alejandro Garnacho had just been included in the Argentina squad for the March international break, his injury came at the worst possible time. The youngster is still waiting to make his first appearance for the South American side, and he will have hoped to have achieved it over the next two games.
The 18-year-old has made 29 appearances for Erik ten Hag's side this term, registering four goals and five assists. He has provided the Reds with another exciting attacking option on the wing, with his pace and direct approach helping United, particularly in the latter stages of matches.
Garnacho, who was born in Spain, qualifies for Argentina through his mother. While both countries are reportedly keen to secure his services, it appears that he is leaning towards the latter. Even though he has played for Argentina's under-20s - and was included in their training squad ahead of the World Cup last year - he could still opt to represent the European outfit if desired.
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The youngster was called up to Argentina's squad for games against Panama and Curacao, but was forced to withdraw through injury. The attacker came off injured in United's 0-0 draw with Southampton earlier this month and is expected to be sidelined for some time. He seen leaving Old Trafford on crutches.
Although Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni was understandably disappointed by the injury, he explained that he was confident Garnacho would play for the country soon.
"We have high hopes for Garnacho and we hope that he can put on our jersey later," he said at a press conference. "Unfortunately he will not come due to injury but we are confident that he can be there in June, he is a boy in whom we have high hopes."
Garnacho played for Spain's under-18s, so it is unsurprising that they are desperate for the 18-year-old to represent their senior side over the coming years. However, the United ace, while confirming his injury on Instagram, explained what an Argentina debut would mean to him and his family.
"It is difficult to put into words how I'm feeling right now," he wrote. "Unfortunately I will not be able to help my team and team-mates in the upcoming games in what is a very important part of the season for us at Manchester United.
"I am disappointed to also miss the opportunity to be with my teammates of the Argentinian national team in what would have been a great and proud moment for me and my family. This is part of football and our profession, however, I am already focused in my recovery."
With the next international break coming in June, Garnacho has chance to get himself fit and ready to be in contention for Scaloni's next squad selection. To do that, he must find a way to have a positive impact for United in the final few months of the season, and with so many games still to come, he will certainly get the opportunity to do that.
Should Ten Hag's side reach the final of the FA Cup and Carabao Cup, the Reds will play 19 more matches this campaign. While certain players are unlikey to play a part in the business end of the season - Donny van de Beek, for example - the likes of Garnacho and Christian Eriksen returning to fitness would come as a major boost for United.
Garnacho certainly doesn't need any additional motivation to get back fit and playing for United, but if he did need a little boost while sidlined with his injury, the comments from his national team manager show that he is will very much in Argentina's thinking - even if he isn't out on the pitch at the moment.
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