Pundit's Surprising Attack on Chelsea Winger
In a surprising turn of events, former Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Shay Given launched an unexpected criticism against Chelsea's young star Alejandro Garnacho during Tuesday evening's Champions League coverage. The pundit, working for Premier Sports, took aim at the 21-year-old's attitude and fashion choices ahead of Chelsea's dominant 3-0 victory over Barcelona.
The Dinosaur's View: Fashion and Attitude Under Fire
Given didn't hold back in his assessment, stating: 'I think he rubs a lot of people up the wrong way, including myself. And this is probably me being a dinosaur, the way he's turned up to one side and a chain hanging out, his attitude.' The former shot-stopper specifically highlighted Garnacho's arrival at Stamford Bridge wearing a Chrome Hearts baseball cap and what appeared to be a Catholic rosary.
Interestingly, Barcelona players Lamine Yamal and Raphina also accessorised their training kits with sunglasses and hats but escaped Given's criticism entirely. Instead, the pundit praised veteran striker Robert Lewandowski for his professional approach, noting the Polish international had 'no headphones, no mad hats on' when arriving for the match.
From Manchester United Fallout to Chelsea Promise
Garnacho's £40million move from Manchester United to Chelsea came after a significant falling out with Red Devils head coach Ruben Amorim. The Argentine international had reportedly expressed frustration about United's 's***' season following their Europa League final defeat, while simultaneously growing concerned about his frequent appearances on the bench.
Since joining Chelsea, the talented winger has flourished under new manager Enzo Maresca's guidance. Garnacho has made eleven appearances in blue already, contributing four goals and assists while earning more consistent playing time. His performance against Barcelona earned him a seven out of ten rating from Daily Mail Sport, significantly outperforming Lewandowski who received a four from Spanish media and was described as 'absent'.
A History of Temperament Questions
Given's criticism extended beyond fashion choices to question Garnacho's team mentality. 'Going back to him at Man United, he wasn't a team player. It was about him,' Given claimed. The pundit also expressed disapproval of the player's reactions to being substituted, referencing an incident where Garnacho stormed off down the tunnel after being replaced against Ipswich last season.
Although the player later apologised to his manager and bought the squad dinner to make amends, frustration during substitutions has occasionally resurfaced, including during Chelsea's derby clash against Tottenham. However, Tuesday night saw a different story as Garnacho received a standing ovation from Stamford Bridge faithful when substituted for Liam Delap just before the hour mark.
Manager Enzo Maresca has been consistently positive about Garnacho's development, noting significant improvement since his arrival. 'He arrived here from another club where he was not training 100 per cent, so his physical condition was not good,' Maresca revealed after Garnacho's impressive two-assist performance against Wolves earlier this month. 'Slowly, slowly we have worked on that and now it's better. He is doing very well on the ball and is doing well off the ball.'
