Alejandro Garnacho: Is the former Man Utd star back to his best, this time with Chelsea?
It's a question that has Chelsea fans buzzing, and for good reason. After a slow start, winger Alejandro Garnacho is beginning to unleash the kind of electrifying form that once had Manchester United supporters on the edge of their seats.
On Saturday, the 21-year-old Argentine put in a performance that turned heads, providing two assists in the 3-0 victory over Wolves. He set up the opening goal for Malo Gusto and the third for Pedro Neto, with Joao Pedro also finding the net. This marked the first time Garnacho has achieved two Premier League assists in a single match, doing so in his 99th appearance in the competition.
But here's where it gets interesting: Garnacho's journey to this point hasn't been straightforward. He arrived at Chelsea after a somewhat tumultuous exit from Old Trafford. He was, at one point, sidelined by United manager Ruben Amorim. Negotiations with Chelsea took a while, and his £40 million move was finalized in the final days of the summer transfer window.
This absence from competitive play meant Garnacho wasn't quite at peak fitness when he arrived at Stamford Bridge. His first six matches yielded neither goals nor assists.
However, the tide has turned dramatically. Garnacho has now notched up two goals and two assists in his latest four matches, showcasing his true potential.
When asked about Garnacho's resurgence, Chelsea manager Maresca had this to say: "He has had an open mind since we started. Last season he struggled a bit then got better and better. Garnacho has been very good on the left side."
The key to unlocking Garnacho's prime form? A simple, yet effective message from Maresca: "Work hard - this has been the main message when he joined us." Maresca emphasized that while Garnacho's talent on the ball is undeniable, his commitment to hard work is what makes him a valuable asset. "On the ball he's doing well, but also off the ball he's working hard."
Garnacho's early days at Chelsea weren't without their challenges. He faced some criticism in his first start for Chelsea in the Carabao Cup, lasting only 59 minutes.
He has been gradually integrated into the team at Stamford Bridge, finally playing the full 90 minutes in the Wolves match. This performance was a standout, featuring excellent teamwork with his compatriot Enzo Fernandez. Garnacho earned a free-kick early in the game, and Fernandez's subsequent shot was saved. Later, Fernandez provided a pass to Garnacho, whose shot was also saved. In the second half, Garnacho's cross led to Malo Gusto's goal, breaking the deadlock. He then set up Pedro Neto's goal, sealing the victory.
These assists followed Garnacho's crucial equalizer against Qarabag in the Champions League, where he came on as a half-time substitute. He also impressed in the 1-0 win at Tottenham and scored his first goal in a home defeat against Sunderland.
Maresca now tends to favor Garnacho over rival left-winger Jamie Gittens in the biggest matches.
Chelsea currently sits second in the Premier League table. They have played one more game than Manchester City, Liverpool, and Bournemouth, who all played on Sunday. The win before the international break has created a positive atmosphere around the club. Their next challenge is an away game against Burnley on November 22nd.
Chelsea is still in the EFL Cup, with a favorable quarter-final draw against League One side Cardiff City. They also have a high-profile Champions League match against Barcelona, just three days after the Burnley game.
And this is the part most people miss: The return of star attacker Cole Palmer from injury in December could provide an even greater boost as Chelsea aims to secure a Champions League spot through a top-four or top-five finish this season.
Maresca's emphasis on hard work reflects his broader vision for Chelsea's success. He stated, "Inside, we are convinced that as a club, as a team, we are going in the right direction and doing good things. At the same time we can do many things better."
Do you think Garnacho can maintain this form? What are your expectations for Chelsea this season? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
