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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Sport
Dan Brown

'If he was one of my children, I'd hit him' - ex-Argentina player slams Man United's Alejandro Garnacho after Barcelona dig

Manchester United ace Alejandro Garnacho has been criticised after the Argentine took aim at Barcelona following their Europa League exit.

Erik ten Hag's side secured a thrilling 4-3 aggregate victory over the La Liga leaders to book their place in the last-16 of the competition. The Reds drew 2-2 with the Catalan giants at the Camp Nou, before coming from behind at Old Trafford thanks to goals from Fred and Antony.

Garnacho, on as a second-half substitute, played his part in the win - with his shot on goal blocked before Antony curled home what would be the tie's winning goal. After the clash, the Madrid-born winger aimed a cheeky dig at Barcelona, sharing a picture of his celebrations at Old Trafford, along with the caption: "The big team passes the round".

ALSO READ: United forward Antony needs to respond to unfair Liverpool comparison

The 18-year-old, who has been called into the senior Argentina squad for upcoming international break, was slammed for his post-match behaviour. Now, Colon head coach Pipo Gorosito - who is a polarising figure in South America - has criticised the United man for his conduct following the win.

"You have to show him what is good and bad," he said, as per Sport. "He’s going to make mistakes because he’s 18 years old and that’s when he has to do it, it’s part of life.

"If he’s one of my children, I hit him with an open hand on the neck. That’s the way it is."

Barcelona manager Xavi was also unimpressed with Garnacho's dig. When asked about the incident, the Spaniard suggested that the Reds ace was wrong to try and provoke his opponents.

He said: "It is a difficult question to answer. When the player is happy, all the anger and different injustices towards you come out. Each one expresses it as it comes out. There is a bit of empathy missing.

"I think you have to celebrate with your teammates and not celebrate as a provocation for the other."

United take on fellow Spanish outfit Real Betis on Thursday night in the first leg of their Europa League last-16 tie. Ten Hag's side are looking to bounce back from their 7-0 thrashing at Liverpool on Sunday.

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