Manchester United winger Alejandro Garnacho has made his feelings clear about being left out of the starting lineup for today's Europa League final against Tottenham Hotspur.
The Argentine has taken to social media to express his frustration at manager Ruben Amorim's decision to bench him for the crucial match.
In what appears to be a pointed response to his omission, Garnacho posted images of himself celebrating his goal in last season's FA Cup final.
The timing of the social media activity suggests the young winger is unhappy at not starting in what is undoubtedly the most important fixture of Manchester United's campaign.
Mason Mount forms United's attack alongside Rasmus Hojlund, Amad Diallo and Bruno Fernandes
Reuters
Amorim has opted to start with Rasmus Hojlund, Mason Mount and Amad Diallo as his attacking trio for the final.
Hojlund and Amad were likely to start anyway but Mount's inclusion has come as a surprise to some fans.
The former Chelsea star has had an injury-fraught campaign and has only recently returned to fitness.
Nonetheless, Mount has already made an impact - including two goals in the second leg against Athletic Bilbao in the Europa League semi-final.
This decision has clearly not sat well with Garnacho, who has been a key player for the Red Devils throughout the season.
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The winger's social media post featuring his FA Cup final goal celebration appears to be a reminder of his ability to perform on the biggest stage.
The Europa League final carries enormous significance for both clubs, with the winner not only claiming silverware but also securing qualification for next season's Champions League.
This additional prize has taken on even greater importance as both United and Tottenham have endured disappointing Premier League campaigns.
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Alejandro Garnacho made his feelings clear on Instagram
For Spurs, there is the added motivation of trying to end their 17-year trophy drought. The north London club has not lifted a major trophy since 2008.
Both teams will be equally focused on the match given their struggles in domestic competition, making Amorim's selection decisions all the more significant in such a high-stakes encounter.
Amorim explained his decision to drop Garnacho and revealed the inclusion of Mount was a tactical decision.
“I feel that Mason Mount in this moment gives us a different balance,” the United boss said.
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Alejandro Garnacho has been dropped to the bench against Tottenham
Reuters
“Because he’s really good attacking but also the way he compacts the team, he’s one extra midfielder.
“You know that Tottenham put all the full-backs and midfielders inside with a lot of people overloading that space, so my thinking was to have possession and a right foot in that position is really important.
“And to also have speed on the bench, because we have Amad on the other side. We need to have legs to change the game.”
