Alejandro Garnacho speaks out for the first time since being left out by Ruben Amorim at Manchester United after winning the Puskás Award
Alejandro Garnacho has spoken publicly for the first time after being excluded from Manchester United’s squad for the Manchester derby by manager Ruben Amorim. United secured a thrilling 2-1 win over Manchester City on Sunday, with late goals from Bruno Fernandes and Amad Diallo sealing the victory. However, much of the post-match discussion revolved around Amorim’s decision to leave Garnacho and Marcus Rashford out of the matchday squad.
Just days later, Garnacho was honored with the 2024 FIFA Puskas Award for his spectacular overhead kick against Everton. The award, presented by Juventus legend Alessandro Del Piero at The Best FIFA Football Awards in Doha, Qatar, recognized the 20-year-old’s breathtaking effort. The goal, which followed a pinpoint cross from Diogo Dalot, contributed to United’s commanding 3-0 win, where Rashford and Anthony Martial also found the net. Garnacho’s achievement made him only the second United player to receive the Puskas Award, after Cristiano Ronaldo won it in 2009.
Expressing his gratitude after receiving the award, Garnacho said, “I’m very proud to win this award; it’s a special moment for me and my family. I want to thank everyone who voted for me, especially the United fans. It was a great finish that I had practiced many times in training, but it wouldn’t have been possible without my teammates.”
He reflected on the significance of the goal, saying, “It was a special moment that I’ll always cherish, but I believe there are many more incredible moments ahead with this team. We have so much to achieve together.”
Addressing the decision to leave Garnacho and Rashford out of the derby, Amorim explained, “Squad selection depends on various factors—training, performance, match involvement, and how players connect with their teammates. Every detail is considered when deciding the lineup. That’s the process, plain and simple.”
