Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni has given his honest verdict on the performance of Alejandro Garnacho against Costa Rica.
The reigning world champions have been in friendly action over the international break as they prepare for this summer’s Copa America.
There was a 3-0 win over El Salvador in Philadelphia on Saturday, followed up with a 3-1 victory over Costa Rica in the early hours of Wednesday morning.
What makes it particularly interesting to Manchester United fans is that Alejandro Garnacho made his full debut for his country as he started the match.
The winger was positioned on the left and played 70 minutes before being replaced by Lautaro Martinez.
Martinez got the third goal to complete a second-half comeback after Costa Rica had taken the lead in the first half. Former United man Angel Di Maria and Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister also scored.
Garnacho couldn’t get a goal or an assist but did impress his manager in a tough game in which he was tightly marked.
Lionel Scaloni gives his thoughts on Alejandro Garnacho’s full Argentina debut
Speaking to TYC Sports, Scaloni said: “We are satisfied with the tour, with how the games went.
“In the end, it was seen that there is no easy opponent and that everyone makes things difficult .
“In the second game, it helped us a lot, I saw a very mature team because we found ourselves in difficulty, with the game down, and the team played a very good 25 minutes in the second half.
“I am happy about that, we are going to find many games like that and it helps us.
“I’m happy for Walter (Benitez). He played a good game, the truth is that the game was not easy and we are happy.
“The same as Garnacho and Carboni. They are guys who can contribute to us and we will see in the future if they will be with us.
“But I’m happy, it’s not easy to play with this shirt or with these rivals who make it difficult for you. We’re ok.”
Another important milestone for Garnacho
Garnacho had already picked up three caps for Argentina but has now made his first start on the international stage, on the same day as Kobbie Mainoo did the same for England.
It’s an important milestone in a young, highly talented player’s career and it’s fully deserved for the 19-year-old.
Garnacho has been excellent this season, particularly coming to life in the last couple of months when he has finally been given a consistent starting berth by Erik ten Hag.
The winger put in his best performance yet just before the international break with a tireless 120 minutes in the FA Cup win against Liverpool, in which he was a constant threat and created the winner.
Garnacho has perhaps been most impressive with the way he has adapted to playing on his unfavoured right flank and has been just as dangerous.
That flexibility has been a huge help for United and will serve Garnacho well for the rest of what is set to be a fantastic career.