Garnacho’s muted response sparked immediate reactions, with many questioning the reasons behind his subdued demeanour. Post-match, team captain Bruno Fernandes revealed that the Argentine youngster felt he was not valued enough by the fans.
“I told him people will always criticise, but many others love and appreciate what he does. I told him to celebrate because it was a special moment,” the club skipper said.
However, Keane, a former United captain and club legend, did not hold back his criticism of Garnacho’s actions. Speaking on the Stick to Football podcast, he expressed his disapproval, emphasising the importance of showing passion and respect for fans who dedicate time and resources to support the team.
“If you can’t celebrate a goal, there is something drastically wrong with this game,” he said. “Whatever has gone on off the pitch for any player – it could be family stuff – you work all week, you’re playing the game to score a goal. When you score a goal, there should be nothing else on your mind. You’ve got fans who have travelled, paid fortunes to get there, and he’s on about people having a go at him.”
He added: “People make sacrifices to travel to watch Manchester United, he scores a brilliant goal, they are having a tough time – and if a younger player can’t enjoy scoring a goal for Man United, then get a job somewhere else.”
Garnacho’s subdued celebration may have stemmed from an unpleasant encounter with a fan earlier in the week. Ahead of United’s Europa League clash against PAOK, a YouTuber confronted the Argentine winger, critiquing his first touch and passing. Garnacho’s sarcastic retort, “Why aren’t you playing, man?” hinted at his frustration with external criticism.