Man Utd have received an unwelcome Alejandro Garnacho request. (Image: Getty)
Argentina have asked Manchester United to release Alejandro Garnacho for this summer's 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, according to reports. And the Red Devils have been left with a lose-lose situation as they weigh up whether to allow Garnacho to compete for his country ahead of next season.
The 19-year-old established himself as a crucial player under Erik ten Hag last season, registering 10 goals and five assists in 50 appearances in all competitions.
He will be eyeing further progression next term, but his preparations could be heavily disrupted if he represents Argentina at the Olympics in the French capital.
According to TNT Sports Argentina, Javier Mascherano wants to add Garnacho to his squad for the football event at the Games.
It will run from July 26 to August 11, a two-week period that falls during a crucial stage of pre-season when United will be readying themselves for a much-improved 2024/25 campaign.
Argentina would be expected to go far in the football event, leaving Garnacho at risk of a prolonged absence from training and the Community Shield match against Manchester City on August 10.
The report claims Mascherano has asked for the Red Devils No. 17's services this summer and is already awaiting responses from Chelsea for Enzo Fernandez and Aston Villa for Emi Martinez.
Alejandro Garnacho could play at the 2024 Olympics. (Image: Getty)
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One of INEOS and Sir Jim Ratcliffe's most pressing tasks is to ensure there is no repeat of the relentless injury issues that plagued Erik ten Hag's squad last season.
The Dutchman was hit with over 60 separate cases of injury or illness, which heavily contributed to a dismal second year in charge before salvaging it with FA Cup glory last Saturday.
If Garnacho participates in the Olympics, there would be very little time for an appropriate level of rest before the next season, especially if the world champions go the distance.
The Olympic football final is scheduled to take place less than a week until the Premier League kicks off on August 17.
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United may understandably be reluctant to sanction Garnacho's release for the tournament ahead of the first season of the INEOS era.
However, they would risk upsetting one of their most prized assets if they blocked his participation in Paris.
Garnacho represents the future of United alongside Kobbie Mainoo, Amad Diallo and Rasmus Hojlund.
It would not be a good start to a fresh chapter in the club's history if he enters the new season disgruntled. But allowing him to feature at the 2024 Olympic Games could be just as damaging.
