We all know how much of an influence the Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has on this new generation of footballers. He is not only admired by millions around the world, but a lot of athletes have been inspired by the former Manchester United and Real Madrid icon Ronaldo.
In the club where Ronaldo announced his arrival as one of football’s all-time greats, Manchester United, a player from his old nemesis Lionel Messi’s country follows him like no other player in top-flight football does.
At just 19 years old, Alejandro Garnacho, an Argentine football prodigy, has been making waves not only with his impressive skills on the field but also with his choice of celebrations. Often seen mirroring Cristiano Ronaldo’s iconic gestures after scoring, Garnacho’s homage to the five-time Ballon d’Or winner has sparked both admiration and criticism within the football community.
Garnacho was United's standout player in the 3-0 victory, which reignited their hopes of a top-four Premier League finish, but this is only the beginning. Ronaldo is one of the greatest players to have ever graced the hallowed Old Trafford turf, and Garnacho looks determined to tread the same path - which is a mindset that should be encouraged by everyone in his orbit. The 2023-24 season has been a miserable one for United, who still have very little to cheer about despite winning four of their last five games in all competitions. United have generally been dour to watch, too, with a lack of quality and commitment across the pitch all too visible, but Garnacho has been the one real ray of light. In 27 appearances to date, the talented teenager has recorded nine goal contributions.
That was Garnacho's 13th successive start for United; Cristiano Ronaldo didn't even get to eight in a row until his 20th birthday. The Argentina international is so far more than living up to the "young Cristiano" billing he was given by Paul Scholes back in October 2022.
Garnacho’s admiration for Cristiano Ronaldo is undeniable. From his explosive pace to his clinical finishing, Garnacho’s style of play often echoes shades of the Manchester United legend. However, it’s not just Garnacho’s on-field performance that draws parallels to Ronaldo; it’s his celebration style that has garnered attention. The ‘SIU’ celebration, popularized by Ronaldo, has become synonymous with the Portuguese superstar’s success on the pitch. Garnacho’s adoption of this celebration reflects his desire to emulate Ronaldo not just as a player but as an icon of the game. It’s a testament to the impact Ronaldo has had on a generation of footballers, inspiring them to strive for greatness.
However, Alejandro Garnacho’s homage doesn’t stop there. The young Argentine has also been spotted mimicking Ronaldo’s ‘sleeping’ celebration, a move that showcases his attention to detail in replicating his idol’s every move.
To Garnacho, these celebrations aren’t just gestures of triumph; they’re symbols of his aspiration to reach the pinnacle of the sport, much like Ronaldo has done throughout his illustrious career. As Garnacho continues to develop as a player, the scrutiny surrounding his celebrations could influence his career trajectory, particularly in the context of his national team prospects. Playing for Argentina, the homeland of Lionel Messi, Garnacho's association with Ronaldo could potentially create friction within the team dynamics.