Manchester United have blocked Argentina from including Alejandro Garnacho in their final squad for the Under-20 World Cup. The 18-year-old has made an impressive breakthrough at United this season with five goals and six assists in 31 appearances so far. Despite his injury, Garnacho has been included in Argentina’s preliminary squad alongside Manchester City midfielder Maximo Perrone and Brighton’s Facundo Buonanotte.
All Argentine clubs must release their players for the tournament but the rule does not apply to overseas sides, meaning that head coach Javier Mascherano must receive permission from United to have Garnacho in his squad. The winger has already featured for Argentina Under-20s and was called up to the senior squad last month, although he was forced to withdraw due to injury. Garnacho is also eligible to represent Spain at international level and has played for the nation’s Under-18s.
The tournament, which will be held in Argentina, will begin on May 20, while the final will be on June 11. Despite his injury, Garnacho is stepping up his recovery and is expected to feature before the end of the season. However, TyC Sports report that Argentina’s attempt to include Garnacho in their Under-20 squad for the upcoming World Cup campaign has been rejected by United. For more stories like this, check our sport page. Follow Metro Sport for the latest news on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.