Lionel Scaloni caused ‘a stir’ with comments on Alejandro Garnacho after Argentina 1-2 Paraguay

Lionel Scanoli has caused ‘a stir’ with comments on Manchester United forward Alejandro Garnacho following Argentina’s 1-2 defeat to Paraguay.

The 2022 World Cup champions fell to defeat for the third time in their 2026 World Cup qualifiers after a disappointing performance in Asunción.

After taking an early lead through Lautaro Martinez, the Argentina team were behind just two minutes into the second half and failed to threaten the Paraguay goal.

With just one shot on target all game, Lionel Scaloni opted to bring on Manchester United’s starlet Alejandro Garnacho to try and make an impact in the game.

However, the 20-year-old failed to impose himself, with no shots, take-ons or chances created in his 26 minute cameo. He also won just one out of his six duels.

Garnacho has been enjoying himself so far this season at United, with 11 direct goal contributions in all competitions.

He responded to recent criticism from a fan outside of the stadium with a smashing strike into the top corner during the 3-0 win over Leicester City.

Yet, his cameo for Argentina generated further criticism from the nation’s supporters and outlets. Clarin gave the wide player a 4/10 rating and described his performance as not having ‘any influence on the attack’.

Following the game, manager Scaloni ‘generated quite a stir’ through his comments on Garnacho despite the performance, TNT Sports Argentina claims.

Scaloni said: “We are looking to have depth with Garnacho’s arrival. He benefits from playing these types of matches.

“I’m not here to criticise my players, I’m here to support them. We knew it was going to be a tough game.

“We’re here to move forward and give confidence to many of the young players who are new.”

It is nice to see the national team manager defend the player who has been criticised a lot in recent weeks. The talent Garnacho has is undeniable but every 20 year old goes through difficult patches.

He remains a dangerous threat even during this period, and is United’s top goalscorer. With further rotation and development under Ruben Amorim, you would hope that we see further improvement from the wide player.

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