COMMENT: So what was that from Erik ten Hag? The result of using a second language? A slip of the tongue? Or something more significant for the changing hierarchy inside Manchester United's dressing room...?
Saturday at Old Trafford was all about Alejandro Garnacho. The Argentina winger was the most influential player on the pitch. Two penalties won - and successfully converted by senior teammates. It was a performance full of moments played at a breakneck neck. Simply at times Everton's defenders couldn't live with the still 19 year-old.
And afterwards, quite rightly, his manager devoted extra time discussing Garnacho, his impact on the day, but also what he hopes to see from the Madrilenian in the future.
"Garnacho is progressing very well and we are very pleased with this," declared the Dutchman. "His contribution today was huge, with his runs, his dribbles. It's attractive as well for the audience, obviously we want to show something."
But then the conversation switched to fellow wide-man Marcus Rashford - scorer of one of those two Garnacho-won spotkicks: "When he's on his best, Rashy can be the same [as Garnacho]. With his speed, dribbles and directness. He did very well. Last week, he scored a very good goal."
As we said, it could've been a simple slip of the tongue. But beyond Ten Hag's post-match thoughts, what is clear is that this United dressing room is changing. Garnacho. Kobbie Mainoo. Neither are yet 20, yet both are virtual first-choices for Ten Hag. Indeed, the only reason either player would now be withdrawn from the starting XI would be for growing pains - and not for form or what they can contribute.
And Ten Hag's words are significant. A passing of the baton? Maybe it's not quite that far. But certainly Ten Hag, with that soundbite, stated outright that Garnacho is now setting the standard that "Rashy" needs to reach.
So they have one, do United. Indeed, with Mainoo thriving in partnership with Casemiro, they have two. Or even three... afterall, even while being forced to sit out the win against Everton, Rasmus Hojlund was front of mind for United fans. The striker being named the Premier League's Player of the Month last week after his record-breaking February. Hojlund setting another record in the process by becoming the first Dane to receive the award.
Again, like Mainoo and Garnacho, Hojlund has proved himself more than a promise. More than potential. He's for the here and now. Six goals on the trot proving the 21 year-old a major figure in United's XI.
But it must be said, key to all three youngsters' impact is those around them. It's significant that those close to Mainoo have let it be known how important the return to full fitness of Casemiro has been for the 18 year-old. The Brazil international has taken Mainoo under his wing and when the pair are on the pitch together, the teen feels a lot 'freer', as confidants say, to play more his natural game. The encouragement and security Casemiro offers bringing out the best from the youngster at this early stage in his career.
For Garnacho, ditto Bruno Fernandes. Again, the pair are close. Garnacho has spoken openly about the support and advice he receives from his captain. And just like with Casemiro, knowing Fernandes is there lifts the burden of responsibility from Garnacho's young shoulders and allows him to play his natural game.
In Mainoo and Garnacho's development stage, this is what these senior players offer. At 18, it isn't for Mainoo to carry the midfield and wear the demands of arguably the biggest club in the world. Just as it isn't for Garnacho to carry United's attack. It's no coincidence that the contribution of both teens is now far more significant than the odd moment or exciting five or so minutes. There's a consistency in their game which has arrived just as the likes of Casemiro, Rapha Varane and even Christian Eriksen have returned from injury.
It isn't their burden to wear the pressure and expectation of being a senior United player. That's for their older teammates. Their job is to learn and play. And with the medical room clearing and better players now around them, we're seeing the benefit.
Indeed, so much so that Ten Hag can declare Garnacho is setting the standard. On current evidence, United's dressing room is changing - and for the better.
