The Manchester United forward was forced off during Sunday’s 0-0 draw with Southampton with Erik ten Hag previously hopeful his injury was not serious.

Alejandro Garnacho is facing a spell on the sidelines after he was forced off with an ankle injury during Manchester United’s 0-0 draw with Southampton on Sunday afternoon.

Garnacho was withdrawn late on at Old Trafford in the draw with the Saints following a challenge from Kyle Walker-Peters, having only been introduced as a 73rd-minute substitute by manager Erik ten Hag.

Now Man United have confirmed in a club statement that Garnacho is “set for a spell on the sidelines” and will miss the club’s next two games against Real Betis and Fulham as well as the international break with Argentina.

Posting on Instagram, the 18-year-old confirmed his withdrawal from the Argentina squad. He said: “It is difficult to put into words how I’m feeling right now.

“Unfortunately, I will not be able to help my team and team-mates in the upcoming games, in what is a very important part of the season for us at Manchester United.

“I am disappointed to also miss the opportunity to be with my team-mates of the Argentina national team, in what would have been a great and proud moment for me and my family.

“This is part of football and our profession. However, I am already focused in my recovery. God has taught me to never give up and I will make sure I am back stronger than ever!”

United have not put a timeframe on the player’s injury with the club’s first game after the international break a trip to Newcastle United on April 2.

Alejandro Garnacho posts injury update as Man Utd forward speaks out on incident