anchester United winger Alejandro Garnacho has been shortlisted for the prestigious FIFA Puskás Award, recognizing his jaw-dropping overhead kick against Everton at Goodison Park in November 2023. The Argentine joins a star-studded list of nominees for the annual accolade, which celebrates the most spectacular goals scored across the globe.
Garnacho’s Acrobatic Excellence
Garnacho’s goal, a breathtaking overhead kick that earned Manchester United a 3-0 victory, has been described as one of the best in recent memory. The move began with a precise cross that Garnacho met with a perfectly timed acrobatic effort, sending the ball into the top corner. The strike earned him the Premier League Goal of the Season award and cemented his place as one of football’s rising stars.
Who knew you could enjoy this goal EVEN more! @ESPNFutbolArg‘s commentary of Alejandro Garnacho’s goal is superb pic.twitter.com/WqxFvvd1wd
— Premier League (@premierleague) December 1, 2023
Reflecting on the goal, Garnacho said:
“I can’t believe it, to be honest. I didn’t see how it went in. I just listened around and thought: ‘Oh my God.’ For me, it’s one of the best goals I have ever scored.”
The goal has drawn comparisons to Wayne Rooney’s iconic bicycle kick in the Manchester Derby, another unforgettable strike etched in United’s history.
Tough Competition for the Puskás Award
Garnacho faces stiff competition for the 2024 Puskás Award, with nominees hailing from leagues around the world. FIFA’s criteria for the award demand that the goal must be “absolutely beautiful” and not the result of luck, a standard that Garnacho’s effort undoubtedly meets.
Among the standout contenders is Walter Bou of Argentine side Lanús, whose audacious overhead kick from outside the penalty box is a strong competitor. Yassine Benzia of Algeria is also in the running for a creative flicked effort, while Melbourne City’s Terry Antonis dazzled with a long-range volley.
| : The FIFA Puskás Award nominees. #MUFC pic.twitter.com/ospj3KgiiE
— UtdTruthful (@Utdtruthful) November 29, 2024
Premier League Stars Represented
Garnacho isn’t the only Premier League player to make the shortlist. West Ham United’s Mohammed Kudus is nominated for his solo run and finish against Freiburg in the UEFA Europa League. Kudus beat three defenders with skill and pace before slotting the ball into the net, showcasing his individual brilliance.
Kudus has been nominated for the FIFA Puskás Award for his goal v SC Freiburg!
Vote for Mo now
— West Ham United (@WestHam) November 29, 2024
Additionally, Jaden Philogene, formerly of Hull City and now at Aston Villa, is recognized for his stunning rabona goal against Rotherham. His audacious effort from a wide angle echoed Erik Lamela’s Puskás-winning rabona for Tottenham in 2021.
International Talent Shines
The Puskás Award isn’t limited to Europe’s top leagues, with nominees spanning continents and competitions. Uganda’s Denis Omedi has been recognized for an extraordinary rabona from long range, while Qatar’s Hassan Al Haydos earns a spot for a volley reminiscent of Beckham and Scholes’ iconic corner routine.
Honduran forward Michaell Chirinos is also in contention with a technically perfect volley from the edge of the box, further highlighting the global diversity of football’s greatest goals.
Past Puskás Winners and Their Legacy
The Puskás Award, named after Hungarian football legend Ferenc Puskás, has a rich history of celebrating extraordinary goals. Previous winners include James Rodríguez’s 2014 World Cup volley and Olivier Giroud’s 2017 scorpion kick for Arsenal.
Garnacho’s inclusion is a testament to his exceptional talent and potential. If successful, he would follow in the footsteps of other Manchester United players who have left an indelible mark on the beautiful game.
The Impact of Recognition
Being shortlisted for the Puskás Award is a monumental moment for any footballer, but particularly for young talents like Garnacho. At just 19 years old, the Argentine has become a key figure for Manchester United, and his nomination highlights his potential to become one of the world’s elite players.
Recognition on a global stage also boosts the profile of the Premier League, which consistently produces world-class talent and memorable moments.
Voting and Ceremony
The winner of the Puskás Award is decided by a combination of votes from FIFA.com users and a panel of experts. Fans worldwide have the opportunity to support their favorite goals and celebrate the artistry that football brings to the sport.
The award will be presented at FIFA’s annual Best Awards ceremony, where Garnacho could walk away with yet another accolade to add to his burgeoning trophy cabinet.
Garnacho’s Rising Star
Garnacho’s journey from a promising academy talent to a global sensation continues to captivate fans. His nomination for the Puskás Award is not just a celebration of one goal but a reflection of his hard work, creativity, and fearlessness on the pitch.
With Manchester United relying on young players to inspire a new era of success, Garnacho’s rise signals a bright future for the club. Whether or not he wins the Puskás Award, his overhead kick will remain one of the most iconic moments of the season.
The Puskás Award shortlist serves as a reminder of the incredible moments that football delivers each year, with Garnacho’s stunning strike firmly among the best. As fans and experts cast their votes, the spotlight shines brightly on Manchester United’s latest starlet, who continues to capture the imagination of the footballing world.
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