International coach says lacklustre form has kept Manchester United star out of squad for November fixtures

LIMA, PERU - OCTOBER 17: Alejandro Garnacho of Argentina looks on during the team arrival prior a FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier match between Peru and Argentina at Estadio Nacional de Lima on October 17, 2023 in Lima, Peru. (Photo by Leonardo Fernandez/Getty Images)

Argentina boss Lionel Scalino was quizzed on his decision to leave Alejandro Garnacho out of the national team for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers.

The reigning champions take on Uruguay at midnight on Friday before facing Brazil next Wednesday, but the Manchester United starlet will not be participating in the fixtures.

Garnacho has three senior Argentina caps to his name, following a scintillating breakthrough campaign at Old Trafford in which he took his chances with both hands and proved why he was such an exhilarating prospect.

However, his form has taken a slight dip along with the club’s this season; in 16 appearances, the 19-year-old has registered just one goal in all competitions.

Still working his way to a starting role under Erik ten Hag, Garnacho’s minutes are usually off the bench and in the closing stages of the game. He has been deployed from the get-go seven times this term but faces competition from Marcus Rashford on the left, and Antony, Facundo Pellistri and even Bruno Fernandes on the right flank.

Scaloni explains Garnacho’s omittance

Such a situation has led to Scaloni opting against calling up Garnacho over the current break. He said, via Fabrizio Romano“Ale’s non-call up is due to a form issue. During the last calls, he did not have minutes and we have to think about human aspect as well too. He’s on our radar and will be part of our plans.”

Despite a slow start to the season for the teenager, United fans harbour no concerns over his talents. He’s still adjusting to playing such a key role in the top flight and almost always has supporters on their feet whenever he gets on the ball.

There’s no doubt that he has an incredibly bright future ahead at both club and international level.

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