Key Takeaways:
- Alejandro Garnacho produced a standout performance for Chelsea in their 1-0 Champions League victory over Benfica, with his cross forcing an own goal from Richard Rios
- The Argentine winger addressed his controversial exit from Manchester United, choosing not to criticise his former club after his fourth Chelsea appearance
- Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca praised Garnacho’s all-round contribution as the Blues prepare to meet Liverpool in their upcoming Premier League fixture
Champions League Impact at Stamford Bridge
Alejandro Garnacho made a significant impression for Chelsea as they secured a crucial 1-0 win over Jose Mourinho’s Benfica in the Champions League. Garnacho’s dangerous delivery into the penalty area resulted in Richard Rios turning the ball into his own net, sealing all three points for Enzo Maresca’s side at Stamford Bridge. The result has strengthened Chelsea’s position in the competition, with the Argentine’s influence coming at a vital moment.
🚨 Alejandro Garnacho: “I’ve got nothing bad to say about my old club Manchester United”.
“There are just bad moments in life… I’m very happy to be here now, play in this competition and get 3 points today”, told TNT. pic.twitter.com/wzdEcD7ptg
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 30, 2025
| Competition | Fixture | Result | Key Contribution |
|---|---|---|---|
| Champions League | Chelsea vs Benfica | 1-0 | Garnacho’s cross led to Rios own goal |
Turbulent Exit from Manchester United
Garnacho’s arrival at Chelsea followed a controversial spell at Manchester United. The winger, along with Marcus Rashford, Antony, and others, was reportedly part of a ‘bomb squad’ of players who trained away from the main group after manager Ruben Amorim judged they were no longer in his plans. While some former team-mates sought new clubs, Garnacho found his opportunity in London. Four matches into his Chelsea career, with two starts, this move already appears to be a sore point for United.
Fresh Start and Garnacho’s Reflections
While at United, Garnacho’s attitude came under scrutiny and a public disagreement with Amorim led to his exclusion from first-team action. Now at Chelsea, the Argentine has been afforded a new beginning, keen to move forward from past difficulties. After the vital win over Benfica, Garnacho refrained from criticising Manchester United and instead reflected on his journey so far.
“I’ve got nothing bad to say about my old club Manchester United, just bad moments in life,” he told TNT Sports. “I’m very happy to be here now, play in this competition and get 3 points today.”
Maresca’s Assessment and Premier League Challenge
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca offered fulsome praise for Garnacho’s contribution against Benfica, noting both his attacking prowess and efforts without possession. The Chelsea boss highlighted the winger’s pressing work and his freedom to operate in advanced areas as crucial to the victory.
“Not only on the ball, I think defensively he was very good, the way he pressed,” he said. “In the last third, he has freedom to go one-on-one when he decides. To arrive in the box is important because it’s from there we score goals.”
With a high-profile Premier League encounter against Liverpool looming this weekend, attention turns to whether Garnacho’s impressive recent displays will earn him a place in the starting eleven. A selection against the reigning champions would demonstrate significant confidence from Maresca and provide Garnacho another stage to underline his value following his Old Trafford exit.
