Rio Ferdinand has openly supported Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim’s decision to exclude Alejandro Garnacho from the squad, pointing to the winger’s questionable attitude as the root cause of the ongoing conflict.
The 21-year-old, once considered one of United’s brightest young prospects, is now being encouraged to leave Old Trafford following a public falling-out with Amorim—casting serious doubts over his future at the club.
In a candid discussion on his YouTube channel, Ferdinand pulled no punches. He called out Garnacho for displaying a lack of maturity both on and off the pitch, particularly highlighting his recent controversial behavior on social media.
One incident that drew widespread attention was a post showing Garnacho in an Aston Villa shirt with “Rashford 9” printed on the back. Ferdinand pointed to this as a sign of poor decision-making and a general disregard for the club’s image.
On top of that, Garnacho had reportedly criticized Manchester United’s 2024/25 campaign in harsh terms, further souring his relationship with the new manager.
Ferdinand noted that if he were in Garnacho’s position, he’d take a step back and reassess his behavior.
He firmly backed Amorim’s stance, insisting that no player should expect to stay in the squad if they aren’t aligned with the club’s vision and standards.
The situation escalated after Garnacho was limited to just 19 minutes of action in United’s Europa League final defeat to Tottenham.
The backlash intensified when Garnacho’s brother took to social media, accusing Amorim of “throwing him under the bus.”
This accusation reportedly infuriated the manager and marked a turning point in their already strained relationship.
Amorim reacted swiftly and decisively. Not only did he bench Garnacho for the club’s final Premier League match against Aston Villa, but he also allegedly informed the player—publicly in front of teammates—that it was time to find a new club.
For Ferdinand, this move showed Amorim was setting a clear standard: no matter how talented, every player must buy into the team’s culture and goals.
This clash is part of a broader overhaul being led by Amorim following a disastrous season that saw United finish in 15th place.
Garnacho, along with Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho, Antony, and Tyrell Malacia, was left out of pre-season training.
Ferdinand praised the new manager’s firm approach, believing that tough decisions are exactly what the club needs to reestablish discipline and accountability.
However, he also expressed concerns about the potential financial repercussions.
By sidelining multiple high-value players so publicly, Ferdinand warned that Manchester United could face difficulties selling them at fair market value.
With no confirmed departures so far, the club’s ability to manage these exits without damaging their transfer budget remains uncertain.
Garnacho’s situation is particularly complex. A product of United’s youth system, he has already made 144 appearances and scored 26 goals—a solid return for his age.
Although interest from clubs like Chelsea, Napoli, and Tottenham exists, United’s £60 million price tag may be too high, especially given the current circumstances surrounding his attitude and form.
Still, Ferdinand remains hopeful that Garnacho can turn things around. He acknowledged the winger’s undeniable talent but stressed that a major attitude shift is essential if he wants to reach the elite level.
As Amorim pushes ahead with plans to reshape the squad—targeting players like Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo—this saga marks a pivotal moment in Manchester United’s new era.
To Ferdinand, this is more than just a disciplinary issue. It reflects a larger cultural shift within the club under Amorim’s leadership.
How Manchester United navigates this moment could define their path for the next few seasons—either as a team that backs its manager and rebuilds with purpose, or one that continues to be undermined by internal conflicts.
