Alejandro Garnacho Sparks Manchester United Exit Rumors After Europa League Final Snub

Rising Frustration: Garnacho Questions His Future at Old Trafford

Manchester United winger Alejandro Garnacho has thrown his future at the club into doubt after expressing clear frustration over his limited involvement in the Europa League final defeat to Tottenham Hotspur in Bilbao.

The 20-year-old Argentine, who had featured regularly in earlier rounds of the tournament, was benched by head coach Ruben Amorim in favor of Mason Mount, only entering the pitch with 19 minutes remaining. United ultimately suffered a 1-0 defeat, thanks to Brennan Johnson’s first-half strike — a goal that secured Spurs their first trophy in 17 years and ensured Manchester United would miss out on European football next season.

Garnacho’s Social Media Reaction Fuels Transfer Speculation

Shortly before kick-off, Garnacho posted a reflective image on his social media from previous cup triumphs — a not-so-subtle response to being benched. After the match, he was candid in his post-game comments:

“Up until the final I played every round helping the team, and today I play 20 minutes, I don’t know,” Garnacho said. “The final will influence [my decision] but the whole season, the situation of the club. I’m going to try to enjoy the summer and see what happens afterwards.”

Adding fuel to the fire, Garnacho’s brother Roberto posted a pointed message on Instagram, criticizing Amorim’s decision and implying Garnacho was “thrown under the bus” despite consistently delivering in big games.

Amorim Defends Decision Amid Garnacho Criticism

United boss Ruben Amorim defended his selection post-match, pointing to Garnacho’s earlier miss in the semi-final second leg against Athletic Bilbao.

“Who missed the big opportunity in the first half against Bilbao? Yeah, Garnacho,” Amorim said. “Some players come in, like Mason Mount, and change the game. It’s easy to say now.”

Amorim also referenced previous incidents involving Garnacho, including his tunnel walk-off after being subbed against Ipswich and social media missteps that required apologies both to former boss Erik ten Hag and the squad.

Transfer Watch: Garnacho Linked With Chelsea, Napoli

The latest developments have reignited rumors linking Garnacho with a summer transfer. Chelsea and Napoli were reportedly interested in January, and with Manchester United’s financial pressures and Premier League profit and sustainability rules, a sale could now be on the table.

Garnacho, viewed as a valuable home-grown asset, could command a significant transfer fee — appealing for a club navigating a rebuild under new sporting leadership.

Fernandes Also Casts Doubt Over Future

Garnacho isn’t the only one weighing his options. Club captain Bruno Fernandes admitted he may also leave Old Trafford if United decide to “cash in.”

“I’ve always said I will be here until the club says it’s time to go. But if the club wants to do some cashing in, that’s football.”

The Portuguese international has been linked with a move to Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia.

Analysis: A Wake-Up Call for Garnacho?

There’s no denying Garnacho’s talent. But some pundits believe the winger — who was widely praised last season — may have received premature hype.

Despite flashes of brilliance, consistency and maturity remain areas for development, especially with growing concerns over his attitude and social media behavior. If he remains at United, he’ll need to work hard to regain Amorim’s trust and cement his place in key matches.

Will Garnacho Stay or Go?

With his future now under the spotlight, summer 2025 could mark a turning point in Garnacho’s career. Whether he stays and fights for his place or pursues a new chapter elsewhere will likely depend on Manchester United’s transfer strategy, their financial needs, and Garnacho’s own willingness to grow from recent setbacks.

🔍 Key Takeaways

Alejandro Garnacho played just 19 minutes in the Europa League final, raising doubts about his Manchester United future.
Garnacho expressed frustration post-match and via social media; his brother publicly criticized the club’s treatment.
Manager Ruben Amorim cited past performances and missed chances as reasons for the benching.
Chelsea and Napoli remain interested as a potential summer transfer looms.
Captain Bruno Fernandes also hinted at a possible exit.
Garnacho must prove his consistency, maturity, and professionalism to stay in United’s long-term played.

Garnacho Future in Doubt After Europa League.