Alejandro Garnacho decision set to deal Man Utd huge blow for new season - The Mirror

Manchester United face the prospect of not having Alejandro Garnacho available for the early weeks of the season as Argentina look to call him up for the Olympics

Manchester United could be without Alejandro Garnacho for the opening weeks of the Premier League season due to the Olympics.

The Argentine, who has become an increasingly influential figure for the Red Devils, is also beginning to earn international recognition. Garnacho has just scored in the FA Cup final and produced the Goal of the Season in a win at Everton back in November.

United are seeking to make vast improvements on their most recent league campaign but Garnacho could be in Paris when they begin their season. The world champions have a busy summer ahead with the Copa America, where they are defending champions, taking place in June before an Under-23 squad head to Paris for the Olympics.

Garnacho is in contention to make both squads with TNT Argentina reporting Javier Mascherano, the man in charge of the Olympic team, has decided to pick the United star in his squad.

Argentina begin their Copa America campaign on 20 June with the competition running until 14 July with the South American nation hoping to defend the title they claimed in 2021. There could be a quick turnaround for players like Garnacho with the Olympics taking place from 25 July to 9 August.

The United man isn't the only Premier League star in contention with Chelsea's Enzo Fernandez also poised to feature at the games.

The new domestic season kicks off one week after the Olympics ends on 16 August, but any players involved in the games in Paris are expected to be handed a rest before returning to club action.

Your turn! Should Alejandro Garnacho play at the Olympics? Join the debate in the comments section

Reports from Argentina claim the Red Devils have not yet responded to the country's request to have Garnacho be part of their Olympic squads. Clubs do have the option to block their players being called up - Arsenal are poised to take such action with William Saliba.

Olympic glory has previously been a springboard for the likes of Lionel Messi. The Barcelona legend was allowed to miss the team's early season activities with Pep Guardiola approving his involvement in the games, for which the Argentine has always been eternally grateful.

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