Alejandro Garnacho has been 'dreaming' of playing alongside Cristiano Ronaldo for Manchester United this season.
Garnacho, 18, was handed his full debut against FC Sheriff in the Europa League last week and Erik ten Hag gave him another opportunity in the starting line-up in the Europa League Group E decider versus Real Sociedad on Thursday.
The youngster looked bright from the first whistle and he vindicated Ten Hag's faith in him by scoring the winner.
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Garnacho scored from close range with a brilliantly taken goal in the 17th minute, with an assist from Ronaldo, and that goal was enough to defeat Real Sociedad, although it wasn't enough for United to win their Europa League group.
Regardless, it was another impressive performance from Garnacho, who lauded his 'idol' Ronaldo after the game against Real Sociedad, writing on social media: "18 years and 125 days dreaming of this moment. Thanks idol, Cristiano."
Charlie Savage, Marc Jurado, Charlie McNeill, Kobbie Mainoo and Tyler Fredricson were among the youngsters in the academy to congratulate Garnacho, who demanded attention last season with his performances in the FA Youth Cup.
Ten Hag also praised Garnacho after Thursday's match. "We need options. We have problems there [with injuries]. I'm really happy with his [Garnacho's] performance, he was a threat," the United boss said. "I think we made a really good goal with Garnacho.
"And some good chances as well in the first half, but of course, we are disappointed that we didn't score two. I hope he [Garnacho] can keep the process going. He was a threat, he scored a goal, he was reliable defending. If he can keep this going then I am really happy."
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