Alejandro Garnacho has aimed a dig at Chelsea after leaving the club on loan for Aston Villa, saying he is "enjoying football again" after his first appearance for the Europa League holders.
Garnacho's time at Stamford Bridge ended abruptly when new manager Xabi Alonso deemed the winger surplus to requirements. The 22-year-old has joined Unai Emery's side on a temporary deal with a conditional obligation to buy.
Difficult end at Manchester United
His exit from Old Trafford had also been sour after a proposed move to Chelsea failed to materialise in January 2025. Garnacho fell out of favour under Ruben Amorim, was left out of the squad for the win over Manchester City, and the omission from the Europa League final starting line-up sparked an outburst after the match.
After the 3-1 win over Indonesia All Stars, Garnacho posted on social media: "First start after three months. Happy to be enjoying football again. One percent every day. Thanks Indonesia."
Sell-on clause and fee
Manchester United, now managed by Michael Carrick, would be due 10 per cent of any future transfer fee for Garnacho. Aston Villa will be forced to pay £43million if the buyout clause is triggered.
Garnacho endured a difficult debut season in the capital, with Chelsea experiencing a turbulent spell and a turnover of managers. Enzo Maresca, who had set his sights on signing the Argentine, left in January after 18 months in charge. Liam Rosenior was then installed as his successor but lasted just 106 days before being dismissed.
Alonso was made permanent manager this summer after Calum McFarlane took the reins on a temporary basis. In the Spaniard's first act in charge, he moved Garnacho on.
Emery backs Garnacho
Emery is now tasked with getting Garnacho's career back on track after his difficulties at both United and Chelsea. The Europa League-winning coach said: "We are delighted with Alejandro. He is so talented, young and he showed us his wish to help our project. We are really happy."
