At the end of the summer of 2024, Man United successfully recruited midfielder Manuel Ugarte from PSG. This is an important contract for the Red Devils' midfield, in the context that they sold McTominay, and Casemiro's performance is increasingly declining.
Ugarte's arrival has brought a lot of expectations. Former Man United player Nicky Butt recently gave a very positive assessment of the Uruguayan star. He was quoted by Manutd.com: "I watched a bit of him last season and I think he is the piece that Man United need. He has strength and intensity in his play.
Hopefully, he can strengthen the midfield. Despite the talent, Man United still has a gap in the middle, especially when the opponent counter-attacks. So I hope he can fill that gap."
Last season, Ugarte actually led PSG in tackles, interceptions and recoveries, despite only making 25 appearances in Ligue 1. That convinced the Red Devils to spend £42 million to convince Paris to let him go.
Nicky Butt went on to stress the importance of a defensive midfielder, saying: "I'm pretty sure that was the thought process behind why they brought him in. United want someone to do a job, which not many players want to do. But it's a very important job against a back four."
Manuel Ugarte is currently waiting for his debut for Man United. In his most recent match, he started in Uruguay's 0-0 draw with Paraguay in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers in South America.
