Man Utd star has Ballon d'Or potential but isn't 'disciplined enough', claims former Red Devils player

Alejandro Garnacho has Ballon d’Or potential but is not “disciplined enough”, according to a former Manchester United player.

The 18-year-old has been a revelation for United this term, deputising admirably for the in-form Marcus Rashford.

Indeed, Garnacho has dazzled the Old Trafford faithful with his dribbling prowess and explosiveness, while he has also added some end product to his game, claiming three goals and five assists in his 28 Premier League outings.

However, United manager Erik ten Hag has encouraged the Argentine to be even more consistent in the final third.

Speaking after United’s 2-2 draw with Leeds last month, in which Garnacho scored, Ten Hag said: “He is doing well, he has an impact on our game, he is a threat, also [against Leeds], he had good actions, he was lively, created chances, but had to score.

“And finally, it’s about that – that you have an effect. As a striker, you have to at least be on the scoring list, the assist list, the key action list, to have the right impact.”

Garnacho has Ballon d’Or potential

Former United midfielder Paul Parker claimed Garnacho has the “potential” to become a Ballon d’Or winner, though was critical of the winger’s attitude.

Speaking to MyBettingSites (via Football365) Parker claimed: “Garnacho is way better when he is being subbed on than when he is in the starting lineup.

“It seems like he doesn’t have the energy to play 90 minutes but he is a really talented player. I would even say Ballon D’or potential but I don’t want to put too much pressure on a young lad like him. And he still has a lot to learn but he has massive potential.

“I’m very pleased that he seems to sign a new contract now, which was the right decision for him. He shouldn’t be playing for Juventus or Real Madrid, that wouldn’t make any sense.

“The fact that he now signs a new contract will also make Erik ten Hag focus a bit more on his development. He has to work with his mentality because he is not disciplined enough on and outside the pitch.”

Topics: Football, Manchester United, Alejandro Garnacho, Ballon d'Or, Erik Ten Hag, Premier League

Chris Byfield

Sport journalist with experience writing on football, rugby, boxing and the Olympics. I'm also a Crystal Palace fan. Please don't hold this against me.