“Thrown Under the Bus”—Garnacho’s Brother Slams Man Utd Boss Ruben Amorim After Europa League Final Snub
Garnacho’s brother hits out on social media after the winger was left out of the starting XI in Manchester United’s Europa League final loss to Spurs, echoing frustrations shared by Rio Ferdinand and the player himself.
Manchester United’s 2024–25 season ended in bitter disappointment, and the fallout from their Europa League final loss to Tottenham Hotspur has sparked yet more controversy. This time, it comes from the family of Alejandro Garnacho.
Garnacho was a second-half substitute, coming on in the 71st minute as United failed to find a goal in their 1-0 defeat in Bilbao. The 20-year-old had played a key role in getting United to the final, but was surprisingly benched in favour of Mason Mount.
After the match, United legend Rio Ferdinand voiced his concern about the decision. Speaking on TNT Sports, Ferdinand said:
“That’s one question mark I had with the selection today for Man United. We didn’t have anybody running in behind, and Garnacho has done that all season when he has played.”
“Whether you like him or not in terms of his finishing and end product, he does give you that threat which stretches teams – and at no point in this game were Spurs stretched in that sense.”
Garnacho did make an impact after coming on, registering one of United’s few dangerous moments. But it was too little, too late.
The Argentine winger didn’t hide his disappointment after the game.
“Obviously, it’s hard for everyone,” Garnacho said. “Our season was s**t. We didn’t beat anyone in the league. We lacked a lot of things. When you don’t score goals, you always need more.
“Until we reached the final, I played every round. And I played 20 minutes today – I don’t know. I’m going to try to enjoy the summer and see what happens next.”
His frustration was echoed by his brother, Roberto Garnacho, who took to Instagram to share a pointed message.
“Working as no one else, helping every round, coming from 2 goals last 2 finals, just to be on the pitch 19 mins and get thrown under the bus, wowe hajjahhahaha.”
Roberto was referencing Alejandro’s goal in last year’s FA Cup final and another in the Community Shield — both high-stakes games where Garnacho delivered. The tone of his post suggested a feeling of betrayal after being overlooked for most of the Europa League final.
Reports from The Guardian suggest that United may be open to selling the Madrid-born winger this summer. Despite having a contract until June 2028, the club would reportedly consider offers in the region of £60–70 million.
Garnacho’s numbers this season — 11 goals and 10 assists in 58 appearances — are impressive for a player who has often come off the bench. In January, he was linked with a move to Napoli, who could renew their interest as they prepare to replace Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.
