Garnacho scores first goal for Chelsea and controversy over attitude

The moment Alejandro Garnacho opened the scoring against Sunderland should have been a dream start to life at Chelsea. But just a few dozen minutes later, when he was withdrawn at the start of the second half, his sulky look sparked a wave of controversy: from harsh criticism on talkSPORT to a public defence from manager Enzo Maresca.

Moments and public opinion storms

Garnacho's first goal for Chelsea against Sunderland was a personal milestone for him. However, his reaction to being substituted early in the second half immediately became the focus of attention. TalkSPORT pundit Andy Jacobs condemned: "He's a bad character, isn't he? The way he sulked when he was substituted was pathetic." Jacobs said that as a new signing, Garnacho should have left the pitch quickly rather than show a negative attitude, especially when his performance after the goal was not outstanding.

Those comments raised questions about the 21-year-old's professionalism and maturity just weeks after he made his first mark at Stamford Bridge.

View from the bench: Maresca protects and manages his form

In contrast to the criticism, Enzo Maresca appeared calm and defended his student. In a press conference before the match against Wolves, he affirmed that he was "satisfied with the way Garnacho is playing" and said that Chelsea are carefully managing the player's physical condition, because he arrived from Manchester United when he was "not at 100%" physical condition. This message was both reassuring and showed that the plan to use the new £40 million player was calculated according to a roadmap, rather than requiring an immediate explosion.

Why did he leave Man United: the story from Garnacho himself

The picture of pressure and expectation only becomes clear when looking back at the turn from Old Trafford. Sharing with Sports Illustrated, Garnacho called his final season at Man United a "difficult" period under new coach Ruben Amorim. He was disappointed with his "form and behavior off the field", and fell into the "outcast squad". In that context, Chelsea became the escape with a specific invitation.

The decision to join the Blues was not just about the salary. A video call with Maresca – where he explained the team’s philosophy and style of play in detail – was crucial. Enzo Fernandez was also a key link: “He texted me every week,” Garnacho says, showing the support from the dressing room even before arriving in London.

The challenge at Stamford Bridge: competition and standards

The goal against Sunderland was a milestone, but competition at Chelsea is fierce. Garnacho must compete for a starting spot with Pedro Neto, Estevao Willian and Jamie Gittens. In that environment, every gesture – even a slight huff when being substituted – is scrutinised. If that reaction is an expression of desire, the next test is to translate that energy into a stabilising influence on the pitch.

Positive signs

• The opener against Sunderland showed his ability to make a difference early in a game.
• Maresca's public protection and fitness management roadmap help to relieve immediate pressure.
• Locker room link: Enzo Fernandez played a supporting role throughout the transition.

Risks to be controlled

• Attitude when leaving the field can easily create stories outside of professional skills, especially for a 21 year old rookie.
• Physical condition "not 100%" forces competition volume to be adjusted, affecting development rhythm.

Immediate meaning

At team level, Chelsea have reason to be patient: an early goal is a good sign, and load management is a must if they are to maintain their momentum. For Garnacho personally, the pressure becomes a catalyst: every minute is an opportunity to prove his worth, repay the coach’s faith and deny the doubts that surround him.

The journey at Stamford Bridge has only just begun. The goal against Sunderland was the welcome; the rest will be up to Garnacho to turn controversy into motivation and the coaching staff's protection into consistent performance on the pitch.