Javier Mascherano has dismissed suggestions that Manchester United sensation Alejandro Garnacho was left out of Argentina’s World Cup squad because of an attitude problem.
Mascherano, the Liverpool and Barcelona legend who is now coach of the Argentine youth team, was behind Lionel Scaloni’s decision to bring the 18-year-old into his senior squad in March to prepare for the tournament.
But Garnacho didn’t make the 26-man cut - even when Scaloni had to make changes to his selection at the 11th hour due to injuries to Nico Gonzalez and Joaquin Correa.
Garnacho ‘liked’ a Tweet suggesting he had been left behind by Scaloni because he was born in Spain. And there have been claims in South America that the Argentina coach has not been impressed with some aspects of Garnacho’s behaviour.
But Mascherano, who saw the winger light up the Toulon Tournament in the summer, insists his conduct was beyond reproach.
Mascherano said: “The first time Scaloni brought him in March, and then when we went to Toulon, he behaved spectacularly. Garnacho is a respectful boy. He formed a very nice bond with the boys who play in Argentina even though he didn’t really know them.
“I really don't know why they say what they say, but with us he had a behaviour and predisposition that was 10 out of 10. Obviously Garnacho is a great player. There is a reason he is playing for Manchester United for a reason at the age of 18.”
Garnacho has broken through spectacularly at Old Trafford in recent weeks. But he had to be disciplined by United boss Erik ten Hag when he turned up late for team meetings during the club’s pre-season tour of Thailand and Australia.
And both Ten Hag and Bruno Fernandes have hinted that issues with Garnacho’s professionalism have been an issue. It depends on his attitude and approach.”
Garnacho was rewarded for his sensational form in helping United win the FA Youth Cup last season with a senior debut against Chelsea and another substitute appearance at Crystal Palace. But he has had to prove himself to Ten Hag following his issues in pre-season.
Garnacho has made eight appearances, scoring two goals. But he had to wait until the Europa League clash with FC Sheriff in October for his first start. Fernandes, speaking after Garnacho scored the winner against Fulham last week, said: “At the start of the season, he (Garnacho) didn’t have the best attitude - and that’s why until now he didn’t have many chances to play.”
Garnacho, born in Madrid, started his career with Atletico before moving to United two years ago. He played three times for Spain’s Under-18s team but committed himself to Argentina when Scaloni called him into his squad in March after a recommendation from Mascherano.
