(Football news) The 20-year-old had been in line to link up with the Argentina squad for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers with Venezuela and Bolivia.

Having a chance to go back to South America to represent his country could have acted as a welcome break from life at Old Trafford amid their recent struggles.

However, it has emerged that the youngster will not be playing for the world champions over the next 10 days courtesy of knee problems.

Manchester United will assess Garnacho over the coming days, but the player himself has taken to social media to confirm his absence.

What has Garnacho said?

Commenting on Instagram, Garnacho said: “I had knee problems in the last two matches, and I won’t be able to be with the national team.”

“I hope to recover soon so I can be on the next date.”

Having returned back late from the Copa America, Garnacho has struggled to hold down a place in Erik ten Hag’s starting lineup during 2024–25.

Five starts and six substitute outings have been made in all competitions, Garnacho not contributing a goal or assist in his last five outings.

Despite the revelation that he has been coping with a knee issue, he completed the 90 minutes as Manchester United posted a goalless draw at Aston Villa on Sunday.

Who has replaced Garnacho?

Brighton & Hove Albion winger Facundo Buonanotte – who is on loan at Leicester City, has been selected as the replacement for Garnacho.

The 19-year-old is being rewarded for his two goals and two assists in the Premier League since making the temporary switch to the King Power Stadium.

Buonaotte has only earned two caps for Argentina, the most recent coming in a friendly against El Salvador back in March.

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