Alejandro Garnacho made his first Manchester United start in the Europa League match with Sheriff Tiraspol.
The 18-year-old was lively and grew in confidence as the game went on, demonstrating why Erik ten Hag felt comfortable starting him.
The early reactions to Garnacho’s display were positive, with the youngster winning approval from the pundits.
Verdict on Alejandro Garnacho’s performance
Manchester United legend Paul Scholes spoke to BT Sport to commend Garnacho’s contribution.
The notoriously ‘hard to please’ pundit said: “I’ve been impressed by him. It’s been a decent debut for him.”
Scholes went onto praise Garnacho’s contribution as ‘promising’ for the future, adding, “He was almost like a young Cristiano at that age. I thought his performance was exciting.”
His opinion was backed by former teammate Owen Hargreaves, who said: “That’s what you want to see from a young kid, be positive, be direct, take the opportunity. Be running at defenders every time.”
Hargreaves added: “I love watching him play, he was exceptional.”
Robbie Savage told BT Sport’s commentary that Garnacho had done ‘very very well’ and should be pleased with his performance.
Garnacho was a constant threat on United’s left wing, linking up well with his teammates and offering a dangerous outlet especially on the counter attack.
Erik ten Hag told BT before the game that Garnacho had impressed in training and that was why he had called him up.
The teenager did not let his manager down, and proved he can be relied on for further opportunities over the course of the campaign.
He was given an ovation by the Old Trafford crowd when he was substituted on 79 minutes, which was fully deserved.