Garnacho's 'best team' dig at Man Utd as he completes £40m move to Chelsea

Alejandro Garnacho has completed a switch from Manchester United to Chelsea in a deal worth around £40 million.

The 21-year-old Argentine winger, long considered one of United’s brightest prospects, has signed a permanent contract at Stamford Bridge after the clubs reached an agreement earlier this week.

Garnacho, who joined United’s academy from Atlético Madrid in 2020, quickly rose through the ranks and established himself as a fan favourite thanks to his fearless dribbling, direct play, and eye for spectacular goals.

In total, he made 144 appearances for United’s first team, scoring 26 goals and registering 20 assists.

Last season was a disappointment for him where he struggled to show his best form and fell out with coach Ruben Amorim.

"It's an incredible moment for my family and I to join this great club," Garnacho said during his unveiling.

"I can't wait to get started. I watched the Club World Cup and to join the world champions is special - we're the best team in the world! It's amazing to be here and I'm very happy."

Time will tell if his departure will be a significant loss for the Old Trafford faithful, who had hoped to see him spearhead the club’s new era.

For Chelsea, Garnacho’s arrival continues their aggressive recruitment drive focused on young talent with long-term potential.

The Blues see the winger as a marquee addition capable of providing immediate impact in wide areas, particularly with Mykhailo Mudryk struggling for consistency.

Garnacho’s pace, unpredictability, and ability to operate on either flank could give Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca new tactical flexibility, which leads to another question for United fans - why did they sell to a direct rival.

The move also reflects shifting priorities at Old Trafford. With the arrivals of Benjamin Šeško and Matheus Cunha, and with United’s financial need to balance the books after years of heavy spending, the club opted to cash in on Garnacho rather than offer him a new long-term deal on improved terms.

Sources close to the player suggest he was frustrated at being part of what fans have dubbed the “Bomb Squad” of unsettled players this summer.

While Garnacho now looks ahead to a fresh start in west London, United supporters are left reflecting on the exit of a homegrown star who embodied the club’s attacking spirit. For Chelsea, however, his signing signals intent to return to the top of English football with youth at the core.