Erik ten Hag charges Alejandro Garnacho to meet ‘demands’ after signing new deal

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has cautioned Alejandro Garnacho to be ready for the pressure ahead of him after committing to a long-term contract at Old Trafford.

The 18-year-old was awarded a new deal at the club after breaking through to the first team following his captivating performances with the youth team which saw them win the FA Youth Cup victory last year.

Ten Hag, on the other hand, has challenged the young Argentina international to get better further, reminding Garnacho that he now confronts even greater expectations.

“First of all, I think he has the prize and it shows he can make the final step, not only in talent but also he made it,” said Ten Hag.

“Now, it’s a new start, a restart, because now expectations will be higher, the demands will definitely be higher. He is on his way, he is a strong character and that’s why he’s there in the moment on this level, and he did it by himself.

“Now more work is coming to go because the demands are higher. We expect more from him but it’s great he made it.

“It tells we will give young players opportunities but they have to deserve it. When I say give, translate to deserve. They have to deserve with their feet, show it on the pitch and it means investing a lot, investing in training and performances in the Under-21s then wait for your moment and prove again.

“Alejandro is that step beyond but now the demands will be even more. He has to compete for a starting XI position. Every time is the same: you have to cross limits and every time you have to go in the next level.

“We go with him in the challenge but most important is the player has to do it.”

Garnacho has been on the touchlines since suffering an ankle injury during Manchester United’s 0-0 stalemate with Southampton back in March.