Alejandro Garnacho Issues Statement After Every Touch Is Booed In Chelsea Win
Alejandro Garnacho has sent a message to fans after being relentlessly booed during Chelsea's Carabao Cup win over Lincoln City.
Chelsea survived a major scare against the League One side on Tuesday night, coming from behind to win their third round tie at the LNER Stadium.
Rob Street gave the home side a shock lead before two goals in as many minutes after the break from Tyrique George and Facundo Buonanotte turned the match around for Enzo Maresca's side.
Garnacho was handed his first start for the Blues following his £40m move from Manchester United earlier this summer.
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But he struggled to make an impact on the match, with his every touch booed by the home supporters.
It was the second game in a row Garnacho had been jeered by opposition fans after being targeted by United supporters on his return to Old Trafford at the weekend, as Chelsea were beaten 2-1 in the Premier League.
Maresca substituted Garnacho on the hour mark against Lincoln and home fans chanted "you're f***ing s***" as the Argentina international left the field.
Despite taking the winger off, Maresca said he was pleased with Garnacho's performance on his first start for the club.
"Absolutely," said Maresca.
"It was not an easy game. That's why I was upset first half because we know we need to do better.
"But overall, him [Garnacho], [Jamie] Gittens, they did very well."
Garnacho opted not to address his individual performance or the crowd abuse immediately after the match.
He has now issued a statement to Chelsea supporters on his Instagram story.
He posted a picture of himself applauding Chelsea fans as he left the pitch against Lincoln, alongside the caption: "Happy to be in the next round.
"Can't wait to see you at home on Saturday."
Chelsea next face Brighton at Stamford Bridge on Saturday before hosting Benfica in the Champions League on Tuesday.
Garnacho has received abuse both in the stands and on social media since his acrimonious departure from Old Trafford, with the winger frozen out by head coach Ruben Amorim prior to his move to Stamford Bridge.
His younger brother Roberto recently fired back at one United supporter who mocked the Argentine following Chelsea's defeat at Old Trafford on Saturday.
After the match, Roberto posted a picture of himself aboard a private jet with his sibling - attracting the attention of United fans.
Roberto later shared a screenshot of a response from one female United fan, which read: "September 20th? Yeah hold that you f***ing freaks", referring to the date of the win over Chelsea.
Roberto responded (via The Sun): "You weigh 150kg, go to the f***ing gym instead of wasting your time texting me."
Topics: Alejandro Garnacho, Carabao Cup, Football, Premier League, Chelsea
Rory O'Callaghan