Alejandro Garnacho has risked the wrath of Manchester United supporters after openly confessing he grew up cheering for Chelsea because of his admiration for Eden Hazard. The revelation came just hours after he completed a £40 million ($54m) move from Old Trafford to Stamford Bridge.

• Garnacho set for a new challenge
• Winger admits Hazard-inspired Chelsea support
• £40m deal could prove a bargain for the Blues

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  WHAT HAPPENED?

  Garnacho, once seen as the jewel of United’s academy, walked away from the Theatre of Dreams after new manager Ruben Amorim made it clear he was not part of his long-term vision. Chelsea swooped quickly, sealing a seven-year contract that could turn into one of the bargains of the summer if Garnacho reaches the lofty heights many still believe he can hit.

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  The sting in the tail for United fans came when Garnacho revealed why Stamford Bridge already feels like home. Growing up in Arroyomolinos, a suburb of Madrid, Garnacho spent hours glued to Hazard highlight reels. The Belgian’s unique blend of balance, flair, and ruthless end product shaped the Argentine’s style as he honed his craft. Now, having followed the Belgian's path to Stamford Bridge, Garnacho is ready to write his own chapter in Chelsea folklore.

• WHAT GARNACHO SAID

  "I loved Eden Hazard," Garnacho said. "Eden was one of my idols and a big reason why I watched and supported Chelsea a bit when I was younger. He was such an incredible player, playing in the same position that I wanted to, coming inside, scoring goals – he was crazy good."

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  WHAT NEXT FOR GARNACHO?

  Garnacho has begun training at Cobham, having been left out of the latest Argentina squad. Chelsea resume their Premier League campaign on September 13 against Brentford, a fixture that could mark the wide man's debut in blue.

Tags: Futebol
Category: News