Alejandro Garnacho’s brother slams Ruben Amorim and Man Utd in angry social media post after Europa League final defeat
Garnacho’s Brother Criticizes Amorim Over Europa League Final Snub: “Thrown Under the Bus”
Tensions appear to be brewing behind the scenes at Manchester United following their narrow 1-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur in the UEFA Europa League final on Wednesday, May 21. One of the most controversial talking points came from the decision to leave Argentine winger Alejandro Garnacho out of the starting lineup—a choice that has not gone down well with fans, pundits, or even Garnacho’s own family.
The 20-year-old forward, who has been one of United’s more dynamic attacking threats throughout the season, was only brought on in the 71st minute to replace Mason Mount. His late introduction raised eyebrows, especially considering his key contributions in earlier rounds of the competition.
Garnacho’s older brother, Roberto, was clearly frustrated by the treatment of the winger and did not hesitate to share his displeasure on social media. Taking to Instagram shortly after the final whistle, he posted a pointed message aimed at United manager Ruben Amorim, who is under growing scrutiny. “Working as no one else, helping every round, coming from 2 goals last 2 finals, just to be on the pitch 19 mins and get thrown under the bus, wowe hajjahhahaha,” Roberto wrote. The message, sarcastic and emotional, captured the disappointment felt within the Garnacho camp.
Roberto’s post referenced Garnacho’s memorable goals in two major finals: his crucial strike in the 2024 FA Cup final and the equaliser in the Community Shield against Manchester City last August. These moments had positioned Garnacho as a big-game player, yet Amorim’s decision suggested a lack of trust in him on the grandest stage of United’s season.
Club legend and former centre-back Rio Ferdinand echoed similar sentiments while analyzing the match for TNT Sports. “That’s one question mark I had with the selection today for Man United,” Ferdinand stated. “We didn’t have anybody running in behind, and Garnacho has done that all season. Whether you rate his finishing or not, his pace and movement stretch defenses. At no point in this game did Spurs look uncomfortable in that area.”
After the match, Garnacho himself gave a candid assessment of the team’s overall performance and subtly hinted at his frustration over limited minutes. “Obviously, it’s hard for everyone,” he said. “Our season was s**t. We didn’t beat anyone in the league. We lacked a lot of things. When you don’t score goals, you always need more.”
He continued, expressing confusion over his reduced role in the final. “Until we reached the final, I played every round. And I played 20 minutes today — I don’t know. I’m going to try to enjoy the summer and see what happens next.”
Despite being seen as one of the club’s brightest young talents, Garnacho’s future at Old Trafford is now shrouded in uncertainty. According to The Guardian, Manchester United are open to offers for the Madrid-born winger and have placed a valuation of £60–70 million on him. His current contract runs until June 2028, but the player may seek assurances over his role in the team before committing to the long term.
Speculation over a move away from Manchester has already begun. In January, Garnacho was heavily linked with Serie A side Napoli, who are preparing for the potential departure of their star winger, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. A switch to Italy could provide the Argentine international with the consistent starting role he craves—something he has not always received at United, where he’s frequently come off the bench.
With the summer transfer window fast approaching, Garnacho’s situation will be one to watch closely. His frustration is clear, both in his words and through the outcry from his family. Whether that leads to a fresh start elsewhere or a renewed push for a bigger role at United remains to be seen—but what’s certain is that the young winger feels he has much more to give.