Manchester United’s latest recruit has enjoyed a highly successful international break with Uruguay.
Manuel Ugarte joined Manchester United on deadline day almost two weeks ago, but with the deal taking so long to complete, he had not actually played a minute of football since July.
So while Ugarte went straight into training, he was not considered or even registered in time to be involved against Liverpool, a stain on the perfect Ineos transfer window.
United’s new No.25, has had something of a pre-season after spending two weeks with Uruguay, which showcases that he may be ready for minutes, but despite this, chances of Ugarte starting against Southampton are slim.
Ugarte enjoyed a solid return to action for Marcelo Bielsa’s side, winning 12 duels for Uruguay against Paraguay.
Now, he has been in action once again as Uruguay took on Venezuela in World Cup qualifying.
Manuel Ugarte once again impresses for Uruguay
Just like against Paraguay, Ugarte started in the dead centre of midfield for Uruguay against Venezuela – an ode to how highly Bielsa rates him.
Ugarte playing the entire game showcased his physical condition and that he may be ready to contribute to Manchester United.
In the game, it was Ugarte’s defensive contributions which stole the show, something that will have Erik ten Hag drooling at the thought of having in his midfield.
| Stat | |
| Minutes | 90 |
| Passing | 34/41 (83%) |
| Dribbling | 3/3 (100%) |
| Tackling | 2/4 (50%) |
| Clearances | 1 |
| Interceptions | 3 |
| Defensive actions | 10 |
| Duels | 8/12 (67%) |
| Recoveries | 6 |
Ugarte also made eight passes into the final third here and completed three long balls, showing the diversification of his ability.
He was dribbled past once as well although this is not something worth being concerned about as it is possibly fitness-induced and should resolve over time.
Erik ten Hag will have to take note
Ugarte’s performances with no real match fitness have been impressive throughout the international break. Erik ten Hag will have been watching keenly after he suggested Ugarte’s debut could be weeks or months away.
Ugarte has since explained he feels good after the 0-0 draw with Paraguay, and performance here was lauded by Bielsa.
After these two displays, Ten Hag will need to take note and perhaps throw Ugarte into the United team sooner than he had intended to do so upon his arrival.
The Uruguayan midfielder will not start against Southampton – with Uruguay playing on Tuesday, he will likely be back training at Carrington on Thursday, which does not give him enough time.
However, there may be a cameo this weekend, and then we imagine he could get his first start in the red of Manchester United against Barnsley in the Carabao Cup next week.
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