Manuel Ugarte has had a relatively underwhelming start to life at Old Trafford following his move from Paris St Germain for what could be in excess of £50m. And of course, that's not just because Manchester United are currently having their worst season in the Premier League era.
Erik ten Hag has had to appease Ugarte over fitness concerns, and the 23-year-old midfielder has struggled to find his best form under Ruben Amorim. The pair previously worked together at Sporting.
In Man United's 2-2 draw with Liverpool, Ugarte produced an outstanding display with an impressive fighting spirit. Casemiro and Christian Eriksen were completely outplayed as the Red Devils lost to Newcastle, but Ugarte and Kobbie Mainoo held their own against an even more formidable Liverpool midfield trio. And according to Amorim, that could have been the difference in mentality.
The pair made four tackles each, more than anyone else on the pitch. There were also a few clever fouls from Ugarte to break up Liverpool attacks without being booked. These are the qualities United fans have come to expect from Ugarte.
Ugarte handled the ball simply but neatly and effectively, thereby causing Liverpool many difficulties. Of course, the Uruguayan midfielder did not lack for innovation. The proof was the long pass to Bruno Fernandes that led to Harry Maguire's chance in extra time. If the English center-back had finished more carefully, the "Red Devils" could have even left Anfield with 3 full points.
"I thought Man United played better than Liverpool. I thought Man United controlled the midfield, which I haven't seen their midfielders do recently. Manuel Ugarte was the key to that" - Gary Neville told Sky Sports.
After 5 starts together at Man United, Ugarte and Mainoo have achieved positive results for the first time. Therefore, more time is needed to verify the ability and suitability of this duo. However, with both of them still young, the Old Trafford team has the right to think about a solid midfield in the near future.
The partnership between the pair has helped United control the ball better both with and without it. Ugarte often drops deep to support the defence and distribute the ball, while Mainoo penetrates the opposition defence and supports the strikers.
"Manuel Ugarte has amazed me. He has improved a lot since I watched him play at PSG. Ruben Amorim should consider his place in the Man United squad untouchable. Kobbie Mainoo has also played very well alongside Ugarte" - former Man United midfielder Paul Scholes commented.
