Amad Diallo swapped shirts with Alejandro Garnacho after Manchester United's 2-1 victory over Chelsea on Saturday, drawing mixed reactions from fans on social media. The gesture came despite Garnacho receiving a hostile reception from United supporters at Old Trafford, where he was subjected to abusive chants from the Stretford End after being an unused substitute.
Garnacho left United for Chelsea in a £40 million move during the summer transfer window, following a public fallout with manager Ruben Amorim after the Europa League final defeat to Tottenham in May. Reports suggested that former teammates, including captain Bruno Fernandes, had urged the 21-year-old to improve his attitude before his departure.
However, Amad appeared to remain on friendly terms with Garnacho, as the pair posed for a picture outside Chelsea's dressing room after swapping shirts. Some United supporters criticised the Ivory Coast international's decision, urging him to 'read the room' given the circumstances.
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca revealed after the match that Garnacho was initially set to be introduced in the second half, but Wesley Fofana's injury forced a change of plans. 'He was ready to go on, but then Wes asked for the change because he was tired, so we decided to go for Tyrique [George],' Maresca explained. He denied that the hostile reception influenced the decision to keep Garnacho on the bench.
