Alejandro Garnacho reveals Chelsea legend as inspiration for Blues move

The 40 million pounds transfer marks a new chapter for the 21-year-old Argentine winger, who was informed in pre-season that he was no longer part of Ruben Amorim's plans at Old Trafford.

Garnacho's departure comes amid a major overhaul at United, with Amorim also offloading fellow wingers Antony, Marcus Rashford, and Jadon Sancho as he aims to reshape the team in a new direction. For Garnacho, however, the move to Stamford Bridge is more than just a fresh start - it's the realization of a childhood dream.

A boyhood Chelsea fan, Garnacho revealed that watching Eden Hazard light up the Premier League played a significant role in his decision to join the Blues. "I used to watch the Premier League when I was young and Chelsea because I liked Eden Hazard," he told Sky Sports. "That's why I support Chelsea a bit. I wore the kit because I like football."

Photos of a young Garnacho wearing a Chelsea kit quickly surfaced online after the transfer, underscoring the personal connection he has with the club. "Eden was a reference for me in my game - how he plays, the same position. I try to emulate his style," Garnacho added.

Despite facing stiff competition for a starting spot in a heavily reinforced Chelsea attack, the winger remains confident in his abilities. "I never feel nervous when I play. Sometimes you can play better, sometimes worse, but I never have this feeling. I can bring something, I can help the team - that's why I am here," he said.

His arrival is part of Enzo Maresca's ambitious rebuild at Chelsea, with over 285 million pounds spent on new talent. Garnacho joins a wave of attacking signings including Joao Pedro, Liam Delap, Willian Estevao, and Jamie Gittens, as the club aims to return to domestic and European contention.

Although he was not selected for Argentina's upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Venezuela and Ecuador, Garnacho is expected to train with the remaining members of the squad in the coming days. With Liam Delap and potentially Cole Palmer sidelined due to injury, Garnacho could make his Chelsea debut as early as September 13 when the Blues travel to Brentford.

Garnacho arrives with a promising pedigree. At Manchester United, he won both the FA Cup and the Carabao Cup, and he's also a Copa America champion with Argentina, where he plays alongside new Chelsea teammate Enzo Fernandez - who reportedly played a role in convincing him to make the move.

As Garnacho prepares to don the blue shirt of his boyhood heroes, he'll be hoping to channel the legacy of Eden Hazard while forging his own path in west London.

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