Man United Forward “Rejects” Saudi Move to Focus on Europe | OneFootball

Garnacho Rejects Al Nassr Interest as Man United Exit Looms

Manchester United Winger Weighs Next Step

Alejandro Garnacho’s time at Manchester United appears to be nearing its conclusion. The 21-year-old winger, once heralded as the future of United’s attacking line, is now firmly on the periphery. Left out of Ruben Amorim’s squad for the final Premier League game of the season and only a bench option in the Europa League final, his exit feels increasingly inevitable.

According to Sky Sports, “The 21-year-old is said to be prioritising European clubs after having initial discussions with the Saudi Pro League side, who Cristiano Ronaldo plays for.” That club is Al Nassr, the Riyadh-based team who have become synonymous with headline-grabbing signings. But Garnacho, for now, is not tempted by the riches of Saudi Arabia.

This is not simply about geography or finance. Garnacho still believes his place is in the heart of European football, and any move at this stage of his career must support that ambition. Despite offers, he is keeping his sights set on the continent.

Photo: IMAGO

United Door Begins to Close

That Garnacho is available is no longer speculation. He is one of several players reportedly told they can explore moves this summer. As Sky Sports reported, “Garnacho, Marcus Rashford, Antony, Jadon Sancho and Tyrell Malacia have been given extra time off by Man Utd to explore moves away.” The list includes underperforming senior names and peripheral figures alike, but Garnacho’s inclusion is significant.

Not long ago, he was seen as a vital piece in United’s rebuild. Raw but explosive, unpredictable but fearless, he gave fans glimpses of a modern winger unafraid of the occasion. His goal against Fulham in the FA Cup semi-final felt like a moment of arrival. Now it feels more like a memory.

Europe Remains Priority for Argentine

The interest from Al Nassr was never going to lead to a swift departure. Despite initial contact, Garnacho sees his future in Europe’s top leagues. With clubs in Italy and Spain monitoring his situation, the player and his representatives are assessing their options carefully.

He is young enough to restart and experienced enough to contribute immediately. His decision to say no to the Saudi Pro League is a rare show of restraint in a market often driven by finance. For Garnacho, it is about football.

A move to Serie A or La Liga would likely suit his technical strengths and provide the platform to re-establish his reputation. There is still time, still room for growth, but there is no hiding from the fact that this is a defining summer in his development.

Photo: IMAGO

United Future Now in Doubt

With manager Amorim expected to reshape the squad, Garnacho may no longer fit into the plans at Old Trafford. The competition for wide positions, along with a push to rebalance the wage structure and offload fringe players, has created a clear pathway for his exit.

His decision to reject a move to Saudi Arabia is notable, but it also shines a light on United’s challenges. When a once-promising talent chooses to walk away rather than fight for his place, it reflects the uncertainty surrounding the project.

For Garnacho, though, it is a chance to write the next chapter on his terms.

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For Manchester United fans, there is frustration and sadness in equal measure when it comes to Garnacho. He was one of the few players in recent seasons who felt untamed, uncoached in the best possible way. Direct, emotional and fearless, he brought chaos to a team often too controlled.

But things have clearly shifted. Left out of the final league game, benched in a European final and now told he can look elsewhere, it feels like the decision has already been made.

Fans will appreciate that he turned down Saudi money in favour of European ambition. That shows character. It shows that he still values his football education and wants to compete at the highest level. And if this is his goodbye, most will wish him well, not with bitterness, but with the quiet hope that the club do not come to regret it.

He has flaws, yes, but there is talent that should not be easily discarded. If Garnacho lights up Serie A or La Liga next season, the regret will be very real.