Redknapp says Garnacho at fault for Brentford stoppage‑time equaliser as Chelsea held 2-2

Jamie Redknapp criticised Chelsea debutant Alejandro Garnacho for failing to mark Fabio Carvalho as Brentford salvaged a 2-2 draw in stoppage time at the Gtech Stadium on Saturday.

Moises Caicedo fired Chelsea ahead with an 85th‑minute stunner, but Carvalho tapped in from close range during stoppage time to deny Enzo Maresca's side a win that would have taken them top of the Premier League. Garnacho, who was introduced from the bench in the second half, played a part in the build-up to Caicedo's goal but was at the centre of Redknapp's post‑match criticism after being left unmarked at the back post.

Speaking on Sky Sports, Redknapp said Chelsea's late disappointment came down to a defensive lapse. "He's got a job to do. He's got to mark Carvalho," Redknapp said. "That's your job, simple as that. Don't lose him, you're now one of the defensive players in here. If he gets in behind you, it's on you." He added that Garnacho "just falls asleep at the vital moment" as Brentford launched a long throw into the penalty area.

Redknapp analysed the sequence in detail, noting Brentford's use of long throws and the aerial battle around the far post. He pointed to Mathias Schade's delivery and the physical presence of Brentford's players as factors, but said the key responsibility fell to Garnacho to track Carvalho's movement.

Garnacho, 21, joined Chelsea on Aug. 30 for a reported £40 million, signing a seven‑year contract after leaving Manchester United. The transfer made him the most expensive sale of a Manchester United academy graduate, surpassing the £24.5 million fee received for David Beckham in 2003. He came on alongside Cole Palmer and was involved in Chelsea's attacking play; Palmer also scored after coming off the bench, finishing from a Joao Pedro header earlier in the match.

Chelsea remain unbeaten in the Premier League after four matches, recording two wins and two draws, and sit fifth in the table. The draw denied the Blues the opportunity to move above London rivals Arsenal at the summit. The result leaves Enzo Maresca's side with an intact unbeaten start but with late defensive frailties highlighted by pundit analysis.

Garnacho's debut will be viewed through the prism of both his attacking contributions and the defensive lapse that led to the late equaliser. He faces competition for playing time on the wings, with several squad members vying for selection, and will seek to establish himself at Stamford Bridge after the summer move.

Chelsea will return to domestic and European action in the weeks ahead as they aim to consolidate their start to the season. The club and manager will assess the late stages of Saturday's match and the individual responsibilities that contributed to the stoppage‑time goal conceded.