Alejandro Garnacho has been making waves at Chelsea since his £40million move from Manchester United, but the young Argentine has come under scrutiny — not for his performances, but for his demeanor.
On Tuesday evening, former Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Shay Given didn’t hold back while discussing Garnacho on Premier Sports, highlighting moments where the forward’s attitude has rubbed people the wrong way.
From Manchester United to Stamford Bridge
Garnacho’s move south came after a rocky end to his United career.
The 21-year-old had reportedly clashed with manager Ruben Amorim, frustrated by limited playing time and upset at being repeatedly left on the bench.
His post-Europa League comments criticising United’s season didn’t help smooth things over.
At Chelsea, however, Garnacho has enjoyed more opportunities under Enzo Maresca, registering four goal contributions in just 11 appearances — a promising start that has endeared him to fans and coaches alike.
Given Voices Concerns About Attitude
Despite his on-pitch form, Given pointed out that Garnacho hasn’t completely shaken off some old habits:
“I think he rubs a lot of people up the wrong way, including myself,” Given said.
“His attitude when he gets taken off, he’s throwing his jumper, he’s kicking water bottles.He’s a young player, he has to knuckle down and focus on his career.”
Given drew comparisons to Barcelona’s Robert Lewandowski, highlighting the professionalism of seasoned players:
“Lewandowski heads off the bus with no headphones, no mad hats, he’s getting ready for the game. That’s professionalism.”
Fashion Choices Draw Mixed Reactions
Garnacho’s flair off the pitch hasn’t helped quell criticism.
The Argentine was seen wearing a Chrome Hearts baseball cap and a Catholic rosary as he arrived at Stamford Bridge, a style choice that seemed to draw Given’s ire.
Interestingly, other players like Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal and Raphina sported similar accessories but escaped comment.
Despite any off-field attention, Garnacho impressed during Chelsea’s 3-0 win over Barcelona, earning a solid seven out of ten performance rating from Daily Mail Sport, while Lewandowski struggled to a four.
Past Incidents Resurface
Garnacho’s temperament has been a talking point before.
At United, he famously stormed off after being substituted against Ipswich, though he later apologised and even treated the squad to dinner.
Even at Chelsea, flashes of frustration have appeared, like during the derby clash with Tottenham, yet he is showing signs of maturity.
On Tuesday, his substitution in the Champions League was met with a standing ovation from Stamford Bridge fans, signalling respect for his contributions.
Maresca Praises Progress
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has been impressed with Garnacho’s development, particularly his work ethic in training:
“He arrived here from another club where he was not training 100 per cent, so his physical condition was not good.
Slowly, slowly we have worked on that and now it’s better,” Maresca said after Garnacho’s two assists against Wolves.
“He is doing very well on the ball and off the ball.He knows that, to play with us, he has to be good on the ball and off the ball.
We are very happy with him in this moment.”
Balancing Talent and Temperament
Garnacho’s journey underscores the delicate balance between raw talent and professional attitude.
While Given’s critique echoes concerns about maturity and discipline, Maresca’s comments show a club invested in shaping a promising young star.
For Chelsea fans, the hope is that Garnacho continues to deliver on the pitch while tempering his on-field frustration, blending flair with consistency as he develops into a key player for the Blues.
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