Alejandro Garnacho’s reaction to Marcus Rashford and Antony goals speaks volumes

Alejandro Garnacho’s reaction to his team-mates scoring showed exactly the kind of camaraderie Manchester United have long been missing. The Argentine winger’s heart-warming gestures to Marcus Rashford and Antony after their Carabao Cup goals against Barnsley were noticed and applauded by eagle-eyed Red Devils supporters.

United were in ruthless form as they thrashed League One outfit Barnsley 7-0 in their third-round match on Tuesday. Rashford, Garnacho, and Christian Eriksen all bagged a brace each at Old Trafford, with Antony tucking away his first of the season from the penalty spot.

Garnacho, 20, was hailed as man of the match following a dazzling display that included two expertly finished goals and playing provider for Rashford twice. But the youngster also earned plaudits by showing he was a great team player.

His joy was evident after Rashford and Antony found the net, with both players having suffered torrid campaigns last season and lengthy droughts in front of goal. After delivering a precise pass to Rashford in the lead-up to the Englishman’s first goal, Garnacho rushed over to him and urged him to perform his distinctive ‘pointing to the head’ celebration.

Rashford had not done the celebration for some time after receiving flak for his poor displays and off-the-pitch transgressions. Garnacho’s encouragement, however, was enough for him to perform it in front of the United faithful once more.

One United fan took to X to express his joy towards Garnacho’s actions, tweeting: “I love how Garnacho reminded Rashford to do his celebration and sprinted over to Antony to make sure he enjoyed his moment too.

“Sometimes it’s the little stuff like this which makes a huge difference to team spirit. Good to see from a young lad.” Another supporter added: “Absolutely love this kid. A ‘true’ United player.”

Antony scored in the 35th minute, having won the penalty after he was fouled by Barnsley’s goalkeeper. Garnacho displayed his team spirit again by being the first to embrace the Brazilian winger, delivering a kiss on the side of his fellow South American’s head.

Garnacho has been one of United’s most exciting and consistent players since breaking into the team two seasons ago under Erik ten Hag. He scored 10 goals last term, including one in the FA Cup final victory over Manchester City, and already has four in six appearances this season.

The young forward is set to feature once more this Saturday as the Red Devils face Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park. Ten Hag’s side will be aiming to build on their dominant 3-0 victory over Southampton last time out in the Premier League.