Former Liverpool defender and football pundit, Jamie Carragher, has openly criticized Chelsea’s new signing, Alejandro Garnacho, describing himself as “not a fan” of the young Argentine winger.
Carragher’s comments came in reaction to Garnacho’s behaviour during Chelsea’s 2-0 Premier League victory over Fulham last weekend at Stamford Bridge. The winger, who completed a high-profile £40 million switch from Manchester United to Chelsea in the summer transfer window, was spotted in the stands following his move.
Despite being at the stadium to support his new teammates, Garnacho drew attention for frequently using his mobile phone while the match was ongoing. That act, Carragher said, reflected poorly on the 21-year-old, as he stressed that such habits were unbecoming of a professional footballer expected to set the right example.
“I am not a fan of Garnacho,” Carragher said in a discussion covered by Chelsea FC Online.
“Do you know what I didn’t like? Did you see the game yesterday, when they cut to the crowd and he was on his phone when the game was on? It is not just him; lots of people do it. But I can’t stand it.”
The former England international argued that being overly distracted by phones during matches undermines the intensity and passion that should be associated with football, whether by fans or by players particularly one who has just joined a new club and is under the spotlight.
Garnacho, who is regarded as one of Argentina’s brightest young prospects, left Manchester United amid mixed reactions from fans after struggling to cement a consistent starting role under Erik ten Hag. His transfer to Chelsea is seen as part of Enzo Maresca’s rebuilding project at Stamford Bridge, where the club is banking on youthful talent to deliver long-term success.
Carragher’s criticism has sparked debate among supporters and pundits, with some agreeing that Garnacho’s conduct suggested a lack of focus, while others defended him, insisting that being on a phone in the stands should not be blown out of proportion.
Chelsea fans, meanwhile, are eager to see how quickly the Argentine adapts to life in West London, with expectations high that his pace, skill, and direct style of play will add firepower to the Blues’ attack in the ongoing campaign.
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