Manchester United fans are keen to see Manuel Ugarte in action once the international break is over. And it might not be too long to wait.
Manuel Ugarte was unveiled as Manchester United’s new number 25 and presented to fans at Old Trafford over the weekend.
The former PSG midfielder was not signed in time to be registered to play against Liverpool, while United are taking the conservative approach in any case, worried Ugarte is not fully fit.
Erik ten Hag issued an overly cautious verdict on Ugarte’s fitness: “Manuel Ugarte, he didn’t play so far in the season, not one match minute, and so he needs to build his fitness state and then we have to build him in the team.
“And then I am sure he will contribute to our level and he will be an important player, but that will take a couple of weeks, maybe even months.”
Manuel Ugarte speaks on fitness
Manuel Ugarte does not share the same opinion as Erik ten Hag, believing he is in good condition and ready to make an impact.
Ugarte is already on international duty with Uruguay, and spoke to the press upon arrival.
He explained he has been keeping himself fit while he waited for his move to Manchester United, which went through on deadline day.
Quoted via Directvsports, Manuel Ugarte said: “I feel very good. I prepared myself and I’m always ready.”
Ugarte is a model professional and he is expected to play a key part for Uruguay in their upcoming international fixtures.
He has already been pictured training at Uruguay’s base as they prepare for their upcoming matches.
Manuel Ugarte on Manchester United
Manuel Ugarte is excited to join Manchester United, having waited weeks after agreeing personal terms with the Red Devils.
Speaking to ESPN, Ugarte admitted it was a mental test to wait for so long, adding: “It was a difficult month, I had to calm my anxiety a little, but now I am very happy, thrilled, hungry and excited.”
Ugarte expresses that he is feeling positive about his £42 million move: “It is a team in change, because new owners came, the project is very good, I love the atmosphere on a day-to-day basis, the desire to succeed that exists in the team and the history that the club has.”
Uruguay international fixtures
Manuel Ugarte was one of the best players at the Copa America, and he intends to play a key role for the team in their World Cup qualifiers.
He said: “I am happy to be back to defend the national team in the qualifiers, where it is very important that we continue on the path we are building.”
Uruguay have two upcoming games taking place during the international break.
- Uruguay vs Paraguay, Saturday 7 September, 12.30am UK time
- Venezuela vs Urugay, Tuesday 10 September 11pm UK time
Ugarte will then fly back to Manchester, and try and prove his fitness to Erik ten Hag and Manchester United’s coaching staff.
United are then scheduled to travel down to Southampton for an away game on September 14, the first of five fixtures in all competitions during the remainder of September.
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