Speaking on a podcast, Butt stated he recognized warning signs when Garnacho first joined the club at 16 years old. The Argentine forward often kept his distance from others and quickly developed excessive self-confidence. Upon being promoted to the first team, Garnacho rapidly became delusional about his status, especially with early media attention.

"He had talent, but he was treated like a star too quickly. And his attitude was a shame during his time at Man Utd," Butt added. "The coaching staff or senior players should have brought him back down to earth in time, but that either didn't happen, or Garnacho wouldn't accept it."

Butt won the Premier League six times and one Champions League during his playing career at Man Utd from 1992-2004. After retiring, he returned to coach Man Utd's youth teams from 2012-2021. Garnacho, meanwhile, arrived at Man Utd in 2020, also at 16 years old.

Nicky Butt (right) noticed Garnacho's unusual behavior while he was Man Utd's academy director. Photo: Daily Mail

Nicky Butt (right) noticed Garnacho's unusual behavior while he was Man Utd's academy director. Photo: Daily Mail

Garnacho is currently experiencing a difficult period at Chelsea, the club he joined after leaving Old Trafford in summer 2025. A 0-1 defeat to Man Utd in the 33rd round of the Premier League serves as a prime example of the 21-year-old's decline. In the play that led to the only goal, Garnacho tracked back to defend but was easily bypassed by Bruno Fernandes, who then assisted Matheus Cunha's goal. After the match, Man Utd players collectively mocked the 21-year-old forward.

Conflict between Garnacho and Man Utd had been accumulating prior to his departure. He once openly expressed dissatisfaction about not starting in the Europa League final, while his relatives also criticized coach Ruben Amorim. According to Butt, such actions are unacceptable in a top-tier environment, especially for a young player.

"Players cannot think they are bigger than the club. When you are young, be humble," he added. "I don't think Garnacho is good enough to be lauded by the media in such a way."

Despite his criticisms, Butt acknowledged Garnacho possesses rare strengths, such as stubbornness and immense self-belief. This mindset allows the Argentine player to create breakthrough moments, though it also makes him resistant to feedback.

Garnacho recently admitted to inappropriate actions during his final period at Man Utd, when he was not playing regularly. However, he affirmed he still retains affection for his former club and views his departure as a necessary turning point for his career.

By Hoang An