Alejandro Garnacho’s agent launched a scathing attack on the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), expressing his dissatisfaction with their handling of the situation and attributing the player’s decision to represent Argentina to “very bad management” by the federation.
Enrique de Lucas, Garnacho’s agent, criticized the RFEF for their management and politics, suggesting that other players with dual nationality may also choose to play for another national team due to similar reasons.
He emphasized that Garnacho’s choice to join Argentina was not a negative experience but rather a positive one, as he feels a strong connection to the country and his maternal family.
In an interview with Ole, De Lucas stated:
“I think that Spain is a closed issue and there is no hiding it. Very bad management by the Spanish Federation, I don’t know who, or I can guess who, but very bad management or very bad politics.
And I think Garnacho is not going to be the only case in which they could lose a player with dual nationality, I honestly tell you.
And he decides to go with Argentina because he really feels it. For him, it has not been a trauma at all, quite the contrary.
When that possibility opens up for him, imagine, being able to play with a team like Argentina, all his maternal family, his grandparents, he has felt them since he was little, and for him, it’s not a problem, it’s a blessing.”
While Garnacho’s international decision unfolded, he continued to make an impact at Manchester United during the 2022-23 season.
Despite his young age of 18, Garnacho had a breakthrough season and was recently rewarded with a new long-term contract.
Having represented Spain at youth level previously, he opted to represent Argentina due to his strong connection to the country and his maternal roots.
In the Premier League, Garnacho made 16 appearances, contributing three goals and two assists, mostly coming off the bench.
Manchester United coach Erik ten Hag has challenged him to strive for a starting position in the upcoming 2023-24 season and establish himself as a key player.
Looking ahead, Garnacho will be hoping to feature in Manchester United’s Premier League match against Bournemouth on Saturday, further showcasing his talent and making a positive impact on the team.