Manchester United loaned out Alvaro Fernandez for the 2023/24 season.
The Spanish full-back decided that Granada was his destination of choice, with the La Liga side taking a punt on the 20-year-old for the season.
They haven’t been disappointed. The academy prospect has been a regular starter for the club as of late, putting in some very impressive performances for the first-team squad.
His efforts earned him a call-up to his national side U21 squad, where he played both U21 EURO Qualification games over the break. Here’s how he got on.
Alvaro Fernandez vs Hungary
Alvaro Fernandez‘s first game was against Hungary on the 17th of November 2023, in which he started as expected at left-back. The Manchester United loanee was the best defender on the pitch for Spain.
He was given a 7.3 rating, according to SofaScore, surpassing all of his colleagues at the back and not being too far off the MOTM award.
Here are some of his best stats below:
- 90 minutes played
- 0 goals conceded
- 131 touches
- 88% passing accuracy
- 0 times dribbled past
Fernandez’s solid efforts at the back meant that the young Spaniards beat Hungary 2-0, with goals coming from Carlos Martin and Pablo Torres. Previously linked to United Gabri Veiga also played, coming on for two minutes.
Alvaro Fernandez vs Belgium
A slightly tougher task then awaited Fernandez, with Belgium their next opponent. This is reflected in the scoreline and the performance of the left-back.
Fernandez once again started and played the full game. However, he couldn’t stop Belgium from scoring first in the 64th minute, in a game that ended in a 1-1 draw.
The goal was the first the Spanish had conceded in the entirety of qualifying so far, with Fernandez being a prominent part of that setup.
His stats weren’t as good in this fixture but still had a decent runout.
- 90 mins played
- 1 goal conceded
- 91 touches
- 0 fouls
- 86% passing accuracy
Spain sits top of the group but still has work to do to qualify. They have Belgium and Scotland breathing down their neck just three points behind each.
Two games to go, with both of these sides to play. They’ll be intriguing encounters.
Alvaro Fernandez will come back to Manchester United… will he be ready?
Fernandez is showcasing he could be a seriously top talent for Manchester United.
Erik ten Hag could have seriously done with his services this season, with a plethora of problems in the left-back spot at Old Trafford.
It remains to be seen as to whether he’ll be given a shot next season – but we certainly think he should be brought in the frame for the 23/24 season.
from United In Focus https://ift.tt/bp1dANw