Summer signing Manuel Ugarte has told Manchester United fans exactly what to expect from him as a player.
The Red Devils wrapped up their summer business with a £42m deal for Manuel Ugarte on deadline day.
Manchester United had made Ugarte their first-choice midfield target early on in the summer but negotiations with Paris Saint-Germain for the Uruguayan midfielder lasted weeks.
Unfortunately, Ugarte’s deal was not registered in time for the Liverpool match, where Erik ten Hag’s side suffered a miserable 3-0 defeat at Old Trafford.
The 23-year-old will be available when United return to action against Southampton following the international break.
United’s latest signing explained his style of play in his first interview with the club, and he says a 15-word quote sums him up.
READ MORE: Manuel Ugarte disagrees with Erik ten Hag, speaks to Uruguayan press on Manchester United project
Manuel Ugarte style of play at Man United
A new midfielder was a top priority this summer, especially a defensive-minded player who can be the long-term heir to Casemiro.
Casemiro was woeful against Liverpool on the weekend and it emphasised the need to get Manuel Ugarte into United’s starting lineup.
During his first interview with the club, Ugarte was asked to describe himself as a player, with the interviewer reciting a 15-word quote from the midfielder.
“Football is a game when we have the ball and a fight when we don’t,” Ugarte said previously.
On the quote, Ugarte said: “That was a totally genuine comment, because I was describing my style of play and that phrase just came out naturally.
“But it does kind of sum me up, because it’s something I feel very comfortable doing when it comes to winning the ball back and now I’m looking forward to doing it right here.”
Manuel Ugarte should be considered for start vs Southampton
It was a mighty shame that Ugarte had not arrived in time to play against Liverpool as his profile is exactly what the side was lacking.
An energetic midfield warrior who can protect the back four and progress the ball safely. Casemiro showed on Sunday that he is no longer up to the task.
Erik ten Hag gave a worrying update on Ugarte’s fitness, suggesting it may be “months” until he can have a big impact.
But the Dutchman really needs to get him into the mix against Southampton.
Uruguay’s final game is in the early hours of Wednesday morning, so travel time and fitness will play a part in whether he is ready to play all 90 minutes.
Already, Ugarte disagrees with Ten Hag’s assessment, insisting he is ready to contribute.
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