It’s no secret that Manchester United’s 2023/2024 campaign has been below-par.
At this stage of the term, the Red Devils face an uphill battle in the top-four race in order to claim a Champions League spot – the competition that they were unable to progress past the group stage in prior to Christmas.
Winning the FA Cup would certainly mask the underwhelming affairs that we’ve been witnessing since last September, as well as give Erik ten Hag some credit in the bank as he continues his audition for Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who could well decide to replace the Dutchman in the dugout this summer.
No player, except perhaps Kobbie Mainoo, has been exempt from criticism over their performances, although some have significantly improved as the season has progressed.
Alejandro Garnacho endured a slow start after his highly impressive breakout campaign in 2022/2023, so much so that he was omitted from Argentina’s squad for one of their camps. Lionel Scaloni admitted that the teenager’s absence was due to his fluctuating form, and it’s evident that he took it on board.
Now on seven goals and four assists in all competitions, Garnacho has cemented his place in the starting 11 and become one of Ten Hag’s most prolific and reliable attackers. He was also awarded for his efforts by being granted his first-ever senior international start in the most recent break.
Elsewhere, Diogo Dalot had frequently come under fire in recent years, as questions were raised over his suitability for a starting right-back role. Now, he too has undergone a resurgent turnaround and found himself widely praised by fans, pundits and former players – like ex-captain Gary Neville.
Garnacho and Dalot cherry-picked for recognition
Jeff Stelling commended the two Reds when analysing the squad’s highest-performers. He told talkSPORT: “If I were to say to you ‘Which Man United players have had good seasons this season’, it wouldn’t be a long list.
“Dalot has had a really good season. I think Garnacho, who was subbed the other night, has been their main threat.”
