Manuel Ugarte has had a relatively unimpressive start to his time at Old Trafford after moving from Paris St Germain for a possible fee of more than £50 million. And of course, it's not just because Manchester United are currently having their worst season in the Premier League era.
Erik ten Hag had to calm Ugarte due to fitness concerns. Under Ruben Amorim, the 23-year-old midfielder has also spent a lot of time showing his best form. The two have previously worked together at Sporting.
In Man United's 2-2 draw with Liverpool, Ugarte had an excellent performance with extremely impressive fighting spirit. Casemiro and Christian Eriksen were completely overwhelmed when the "Red Devils" lost to Newcastle, but Ugarte and Kobbie Mainoo stood firm against Liverpool's even more formidable midfield trio. And according to Amorim, it could be a mental difference.
The pair made four tackles each, more than anyone else on the pitch. There were also a few clever fouls from Ugarte to break Liverpool's attacks without being carded. These are the qualities that Man United fans have expected from Ugarte.
Ugarte handled the ball simply but neatly and effectively, thereby causing Liverpool many difficulties. Of course, the Uruguayan midfielder is not without breakthroughs. The proof is the long pass to Bruno Fernandes to lead to Harry Maguire's opportunity in extra time. If the English midfielder had finished more carefully, the "Red Devils" could have even left Anfield with 3 full points.
"I think Man United played better than Liverpool. I think Man United have controlled the midfield, which I have not seen their midfielders do recently. Manuel Ugarte is 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 prove the ability and suitability of this duo. However, with both young, the Old Trafford team has the right to think about a solid midfield in the coming time.
The combination of the duo helped Man United control better with and without the ball. Ugarte often dropped deep to support the defense and distribute the ball, while Mainoo penetrated the opponent's defense and supported the strikers.
"Manuel Ugarte surprised me. He has improved a lot compared to when I watched him play for PSG. Ruben Amorim should see his position in the Man United squad as imposable. Kobbie Mainoo has also played very well alongside Ugarte" - former Man United midfielder Paul Scholes commented.
