The little United player was obviously smitten with Messi when he shared an Instagram photo of the striker on Wednesday night, referring to him as his “idol.” And Garnacho is certain that his general call-up has generated conversation if that hasn’t already.

He told United’s official website, “This [call-up] will get people talking about me but I’m still young and it’s the beginning of my career and I’m just focused on playing football and on improving.”

Garnacho, who played atletico Madrid, was coveted by Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund in 2020, but the Red Devils turned them down. He went on to become a star down the left side of the attack for the U18, U19, and U23 teams.

The 17-year-old has been quite successful in the competition, scoring five goals in four games and dishing out three assists as they’ve defeated Scunthrope, Reading, Everton, Leicester, and Wolves en route to the championship.

He has scored 11 goals and provided six assists in 28 games this season across all competitions, which include the Premier League 2, UEFA Youth League, and the U18s Premier League.

And he did so on MUTV in a spectacular solo goal against the Toffees U18s, when he honoured his hero, the legendary Cristiano Ronaldo of Man United and Real Madrid. 

Deep in United’s half, Garnacho picked up the ball and went on a 60-yard run. He then engaged in a footrace with the defender and, upon seeing his path to goal was blocked, stepped inside to curl the ball into the far corner.

He then mimicked Ronaldo’s signature “Siu” celebration, which he also used to celebrate his 89th-minute winner against Leicester in the quarterfinal match.

In addition to his Everton single goal, he has produced several spectacular plays during the tournament. Against Scunthorpe, he scored with a bicycle kick in front of the Stretford End.

Therefore, it should come as no surprise that he was referred to in Spanish media as “the jewel in the crown” of the Atletico academy. 

Because of his exceptional ball control and technical skill, he is extremely difficult to stop when he is rushing the opposition’s back lines.

He is equally as deadly in front of goal, playing on instinct in and around the box. He was so good at breaking down defenders in the minor division that he ended up being Spain’s top striker in 2016 while playing for Atletico’s Infantil B.