Alejandro Garnacho 'contact' with manager speaks volumes as Chelsea star faces uphill battle

Former Manchester United star Alejandro Garnacho has reportedly reached out to Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni seeking assurance about his international prospects following his summer switch to Chelsea.

The 21-year-old was unable to make his mark against his old club on Saturday as the Blues fell to a 2-1 defeat at Old Trafford. Garnacho remained on the bench throughout the loss, and he received the hostile welcome he likely expected from the United faithful during his warm-up routine following his departure.

The winger has featured twice since his move to Stamford Bridge but doesn't want his summer switch to impact on his international selection.

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Argentina have won their last three major tournaments, including the World Cup, and has been told his performances will determine whether on not he gets the nod.

A report from DSports states that Garnacho is aware his place in the national squad is not guaranteed, and the player contacted Scaloni directly to find out his situation.

Argentina's manager was said to be clear with Garnacho, outlining his selection will depend on his performance and prominence this season, as he is currently not a priority in the pecking order of options ahead of next summer's World Cup.

Garnacho has made eight appearances for his country, all of those coming whilst he was on the books of United.

Scaloni has provided over an era of huge success with the South American nation, who are readying to transition into their post-Lionel Messi era.

In their latest squad they had the Atletico Madrid trio of Julian Alcarez, Nicolas Gonzales and Guiliano Simeone among their attacking options. Inter Milan's Lautaro Martinez has also been a regular in the final third, leaving Garnacho with some notable competition.

Both Garnacho's appearances with Chelsea have come as a substitute, with his bow arriving as an 11-minute appearance during their 2-2 draw with Brentford before he was given 22 minutes in their 3-1 Champions League loss to Bayern Munich.

Garnacho was set to play against his former team, but a last-minute change due to Wesley Fofana's condition meant his first start was put on hold.

"Garnacho was ready to go inside but then Wes asked for the change because he was tired after a long time so we decided to go for Malo [Gusto], but the idea was to give Garnacho minutes," explained Enzo Maresca. "He was ready, I sent him for the warm up and he was ready but then Wes asked for the change so we decided to go with Malo."

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