Alejandro Garnacho Could Claim One Major FIFA Award Lionel Messi Has Never Won

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Manchester United’s rising star Alejandro Garnacho is on the brink of a monumental achievement that even his illustrious Argentine teammate and Inter Miami star Lionel Messi has yet to achieve.

The 20-year-old winger has been nominated for FIFA’s 2024 Puskas Award, a recognition for the best goal of the year.

Since bursting onto the scene last season, Garnacho has become an integral part of Manchester United's squad. The academy graduate has thrived under both Erik ten Hag and current manager Ruben Amorim.

In the ongoing 2024/25 campaign, Garnacho has already contributed eight goals and four assists, proving his consistency and importance to the team.

Garnacho’s nomination for the Puskas Award is due to his stunning bicycle kick against Everton during the 2023/24 season.

While the competition for the Puskas Award is tough, Garnacho’s effort is viewed as one of the standout moments of last season.

Should Garnacho win, it would mark a significant milestone for the young Argentine, especially given that Messi—despite his countless honors—has never claimed the award.

Under new manager Ruben Amorim, Garnacho has continued to develop, featuring prominently in the Portuguese coach's opening two games. He is expected to play a big part when Manchester United face Arsenal in London in midweek.