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Alejandro Garnacho, the talented young winger who joined Manchester United from Atletico Madrid in 2020, could be set for a squad number change ahead of the new season. The 19-year-old, who impressed for the Under-18s and made his senior debut in the Europa League last term, wore the No.49 shirt in 2022-23.
After making his United debut on October 27 last year in a 3-0 victory over Sheriff Tiraspol of Moldova in the UEFA Europa League, Garnacho was commended by manager Erik Ten Hag for his development in recent weeks. However, a clue on the club’s official website suggests that he might be getting a new number soon.
Sport Bible claims that the Manchester United store, which displays the squad numbers of every player, does not carry Garnacho's No. 49 jersey. This suggests that Garnacho might receive a different number—possibly a lesser one that more accurately reflects his position on the first team. During preseason, the Argentine has been working out with Erik Ten Hag’s team and has participated in a few friendlies wearing the old 49-number jersey.
Garnacho is regarded as one of the most promising prospects at Man United and has been compared to Lionel Messi for his dribbling skills and creativity. He scored seven goals in 17 appearances for the Under-18s in the 2020-21 season.
Garnacho will be hoping to get more opportunities to showcase his talent in the upcoming season and cement his place in Ten Hag’s plans. A new squad number could be a sign of his progress and potential at Man United. Squad numbers 13 and 15 are available, followed by the vacant squad numbers 30 through 32. Raphael Varane might take over the No. 4 jersey for the upcoming season, which would free up No. 19.
