Ten Hag's missed bid for Garnacho leaves Villa loan in limbo

Former Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag disclosed that he attempted to bring Argentine winger Alejandro Garnacho to Bayer Leverkusen during the summer of 2025, a move that never materialised after the player completed a £40 million transfer to Chelsea in August 2025.

The account comes from LUKE AUGUSTUS, ASSISTANT, published on 21 October 2026. He outlines Ten Hag's reflections on the winger's career.

United roots and FA Cup glory

Erik ten Hag gave Alejandro Garnacho his first senior appearance after the Argentine progressed from Manchester United's academy. The Dutchman handed the winger his debut in the 2023‑24 season.

Their partnership peaked in the 2024 FA Cup final, where United beat Manchester City 2‑1. Garnacho scored the opening goal, securing the cup for the club.

Ten Hag was dismissed as United manager in October 2024. He returned to management with Bayer Leverkusen in the summer of 2025, but was fired after just two Bundesliga matches, a league record.

Failed Leverkusen bid and current fallout

Ten Hag later revealed he tried to sign Garnacho for Leverkusen in the summer of 2025, telling the player, “Come to Leverkusen”. Garnacho preferred to stay in England, so the deal never went ahead.

Garnacho completed a £40 million transfer to Chelsea in August 2025. He spent only one season at the Blues before moving on loan to Aston Villa.

At Villa, the winger finds himself down the pecking order under manager Unai Emery. First‑team minutes have been scarce so far.

Ten Hag described Garnacho as an amazing player capable of relentless high‑speed runs and creative attacking play. He warned that the Argentine must remain disciplined, noting occasional selfishness can hinder his development.

Ten Hag also voiced frustration over United's sale of Scott McTominay to Napoli for £25 million in the summer of 2024, a decision he opposed. He said the hierarchy ignored his wishes.