Erik ten Hag assesses impressive Alejandro Garnacho
Manchester United star Alejandro Garnacho has hinted he wants the No 7 shirt after signing a new contract with the club. The Argentine has committed himself to the Red Devils until 2028 following an impressive season at Old Trafford. And fans should expect to see the 18-year-old on the pitch soon, with Erik ten Hag confirming the forward was on the verge of returning from injury.
On Friday, United announced Garnacho had signed a new contract with the club - ending the uncertainty over the forward’s future in the process.
And the Argentine then dropped a massive shirt number hint on social media in the aftermath of that development.
On Twitter, Garnacho ‘liked’ a message from a fan calling on the 18-year-old to be given the club’s iconic No 7 jersey that is currently vacant.
Cristiano Ronaldo was the last occupant, with the veteran wearing it for a second time before leaving back in November following a bombshell interview with Piers Morgan.
Other United legends, such as David Beckham, Eric Cantona and George Best, have all sported the jersey in previous years.
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“His talent, drive and determination to succeed saw him quickly progress from our Academy into the first team, and this new long-term contract reflects our confidence in him to continue his exciting development under the guidance of Erik and his staff.
“Alejandro has huge potential, and we are all looking forward to working with him to ensure he can fulfil his ambitions here at Manchester United in the coming years.”
And Garnacho himself stated: “When I joined this incredible club, I dreamt of achieving my debut, playing at Old Trafford, scoring my first goal and winning trophies with this badge on my chest.
“I feel very proud and emotional to have experienced these moments already, together with my family who have supported me every step of the way.
“We are all humbled to have this chance to continue our journey at Manchester United and I have already begun to work on achieving the next set of targets and ambitions.
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Man Utd star Alejandro Garnacho wants Cristiano Ronaldo's old No 7 shirt (Image: GETTY)
“The manager and his coaching staff have helped me to improve in every way, and with their support, I am developing each day to help the team to be successful.
“I am relishing the future and can’t wait to create more special memories with this group, in front of our amazing supporters.”
On Thursday night, after United’s 2-2 draw with Tottenham, Ten Hag confirmed Garnacho would soon be available again.
“He will return tomorrow in team training, partially,” the Dutchman said after seeing his side throw away a 2-0 lead.
“Then we will have to see when he can return to full training, and back into matches.”
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Man Utd star Alejandro Garnacho has impressed under Erik ten Hag this season (Image: GETTY)
While the No 7 shirt is special at United, several players have struggled with the jersey over the past decade or so.
Antonio Valencia felt uncomfortable playing with it and reverted back to his preferred No 25 at the beginning of the 2013/2014 season.
Angel Di Maria failed to do it justice, lasting just a year at the club.
Memphis Depay fared little better, with the Netherlands international spending 18 months in England before being offloaded by Jose Mourinho.
And the less said about Alexis Sanchez the better.