Garnacho pulls out from Argentina squad with knee problem

Alejandro Garnacho, the Manchester United winger, has been ruled out of Argentina's national squad due to a knee injury sustained during a recent match against Aston Villa . The discomfort in his left knee has prompted medical staff to recommend that he not participate in the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Venezuela and Bolivia. This decision underscores the importance of player health and readiness for international duty, particularly as Garnacho had recently played a full 90 minutes for his club .

The world champions are top of the South American qualifying standings - two points ahead of second-placed Colombia.

Lionel Scaloni's Argentina travel to sixth-placed Venezuela on Thursday and host Bolivia, who are eighth, next Tuesday.

Garnacho has won seven caps for his country and helped Argentina clinch a record 16th Copa America title in the summer.

Meanwhile, Garnacho's United team-mate, Noussair Mazraoui, 26, has withdrawn from Morocco's squad for their Africa Cup of Nations double header against the Central African Republic.

Having returned back late from the Copa America, Garnacho has struggled to hold down a place in Erik ten Hag's starting lineup during 2024-25.

Five starts and six substitute outings have been made in all competitions, Garnacho not contributing a goal or assist in his last five outings.

Despite the revelation that he has been coping with a knee issue, he completed the 90 minutes as United posted a goalless draw at Aston Villa on Sunday.

The injury prevents the winger from competing for more playing time in Scaloni's side. Despite featuring in Argentina's Copa América 2024 squad, Garnacho only made one appearance at the tournament. He got the nod against Peru in a group stage match while Scaloni rested his strongest XI and then he remained on the bench throughout the knockout stage.

The Argentine only has seven caps for his country and will now have to wait until the November international break to represent La Albiceleste.

The news of injury comes just after Garnacho played a full 90 minutes for Manchester United against Aston Villa on Sunday, Oct. 6. The 20-year-old made his fourth Premier League start of the season but could not help the Red Devils take home more than a point from the scoreless draw.

Despite being an integral part of Argentina's Copa America-winning team earlier this year, with seven caps to his name, Garnacho's absence could impact the squad dynamics . He has been replaced by Facundo Buonanotte from Leicester City. The injury is reportedly minor; however, it necessitates careful management to ensure Garnacho returns for Manchester United’s next Premier League match against Brentford on October 19 .

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Sarah H

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