Alejandro Garnacho still has a long way to go to world class - Erik ten Hag

Erik ten Hag believes Alejandro Garnacho has the "X factor" and potential to become a world-class player but says the Manchester United star still has a "long way to go".

The 20-year-old has quickly established himself as a fan favourite at Old Trafford, scoring 16 goals in 87 appearances having come through the academy set-up.

Garnacho starred as United won the FA Youth Cup in 2022 and two years on opened the scoring in May's FA Cup final win against rivals Manchester City.

The Argentina international is now pushing for his first start of the season at Brighton at lunchtime today, having made an impact off the bench in both appearances to date this term.

Asked what he needs to do to go the next level and show he is a world-class player, Ten Hag said: "Ah, you are going very quickly. World-class player, then he has to go a long way.

"He has high potential, 100%. He showed last season he can contribute, he can be a starting XI player.

"But to make the jump to become a world-class player, a long way to go and it starts with very hard work.

"That brought him where he is now and that will bring him to that world-class player because – and that is where I agree – he has the potential (to become)."

Garnacho showed his quality by scoring a fine goal in the eventual Community Shield shoot-out defeat to City and provided a spark again in their Premier League opener.

The winger’s cross was turned home superbly by debutant Joshua Zirkzee in the 1-0 win over Fulham as he continues in the footsteps of other exciting United wide men.

"If you want to be that player where your colleague is talking about 'world class' then you have to do it consistently"

"I agree we need but I think every club in the top needs players with, let’s say, the X