Alejandro Garnacho scored his first professional goal for Manchester United in a 1-0 win over Real Sociedad in the final game of the Europa League group stage.
Man Utd manager Erik ten Hag expressed his satisfaction with the 18-year-old winger’s performance, stating that “he was a threat, he scored a goal and did well defensively. It was a great finish, a great attack, and really enjoyable.”
The valuable away win at Sociedad is only Granacho’s second start for Man Utd, the first coming last week against FC Sheriff in the same competition.
Club legend Cristiano Ronaldo notably assisted Garnacho’s goal, with fans showing appreciation on social media for the way in which the veteran has supported Man Utd’s next generation. Ronaldo made his Man Utd debut as an 18-year-old almost 20 years ago, before Garnacho was born.
Despite the crucial victory, Manchester United was unable to snatch the top spot in Group E from Real Sociedad. While the teams ended the group stage tied on 15 points, the La Liga team emerged as the group winner due to having a superior goal difference to Man Utd.
While Sociedad will progress directly to the Europa League round of 16, the Red Devils will have to participate in a playoff round, where they will go up against a team that finished in third place in the Champions League group stage.
