Alejandro Garnacho’s First Chelsea Start: A Night to Forget Amidst Hostile Reception
Alejandro Garnacho was handed his first start for Chelsea since his high-profile summer transfer from Manchester United in a Carabao Cup third-round match against League One side Lincoln City.
The occasion, however, proved to be a challenging one for the young winger, marked by a difficult performance and a hostile reception from the home crowd.
Following his return to Old Trafford over the weekend as an unused substitute, where he was also subjected to boos from his former supporters.
Additionally, Garnacho faced a similar reception at the LNER Stadium.
From the moment he stepped onto the field, every touch of the ball was met with jeers and boos from the Lincoln faithful.
On the pitch, Garnacho struggled to make a significant impact during the first half.
He had limited touches and was unable to provide the creative spark many expected, managing no successful dribbles and one failed cross.
The home side capitalized on Chelsea’s poor start, taking a 1-0 lead.
Despite the Blues’ second-half turnaround with two quick goals from Tyrique George and Facundo Buonanotte, Garnacho remained largely ineffective.
He was substituted on the hour mark for Estevao, and as he left the field, he was met with chants from the home supporters.
Following the match, Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca was questioned about Garnacho’s performance and the decision to substitute him.
Maresca stated that he was pleased with Garnacho’s effort, noting that it was “not an easy game,” and affirmed that both Garnacho and Jamie Gittens “did very well.”
Garnacho himself did not address the crowd abuse, instead posting on social media that he was “happy to be in the next round” and “Can’t wait to see you at home on Saturday.
ALSO READ: Mozzart Bet injects KSh 18 million into Kenyan football.
