Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni thinks Alejandro Garnacho has a promising future with the national team after the Manchester United player began his first game for his country.
Garnacho has performed well for United in his second season with the first-team, providing four assists and scoring seven – including his outstanding goal against Everton in November.
Choosing to represent Argentina over Spain, the forward made his senior debut against Australia last summer.
The 19-year-old was selected for friendly matches against El Salvador and Costa Rica this month as the reigning world champions continue their preparations for this summer’s Copa America.
Garnacho came on for the second half last week against El Salvador and earned a starting appearance in the early hours of Wednesday morning as La Albiceleste defeated Costa Rica 3-1 in Los Angeles.
PSV Eindhoven goalkeeper Walter Benitez and Inter Milan rising star Valentín Carboni also made their debuts in that game. Speaking after the win, Argentina manager Scaloni said he was pleased with the impact of the trio in challenging conditions.
‘I’m happy for Walter (Benítez). He played a good game, the truth is that the game was not easy and we are happy,’ Scaloni said.
‘The same as Garnacho and Carboni. They are individuals 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 okay’.
Scaloni, however, also issued a warning to the squad ahead of this summer’s Copa America campaign, stating that only veterans Lionel Messi and Angel di Maria are guaranteed a spot in his squad at this stage.
‘In the world of football, one never knows,’ Scaloni said.
‘Guaranteeing a spot in the Copa América to none of those present here. Only to the one who didn’t come [Messi], the rest sweat it out. Well, ‘El Fideo’ [Di María] too. He also has it guaranteed.’
