Against Barnsley, Manuel Ugarte made the first start of his Manchester United career and had an immediate impact.
After months of waiting, the Old Trafford crowd got to see Manuel Ugarte in action, and he did not disappoint.
The Uruguayan midfield general showed some good moments, while clearly still adjusting to the style of football Manchester United play.
Ugarte’s full debut showing was solid and will have left Erik ten Hag confident that he can play a bigger role going forward, both on and off the ball in the 7-0 thrashing of Barnsley – the biggest win United have had under Ten Hag.
Ugarte sent a powerful message after the game, declaring that he had an amazing night at Old Trafford, the first of many we hope.
Manuel Ugarte showcased underrated skill against Barnsley
As a player, Ugarte is known for his fight, tackling and all-around being a destroyer in midfield. We saw this against Barnsley as he was covered in blood and wanted to keep going.
However, he is much more than this and he showcased this on Tuesday night against Barnsley, with one of his more underrated qualities he proved why he will be such a valuable asset to United this season.
On more than one occasion, Ugarte picked up the ball in positions where he was instantly under pressure, he would then dribble himself out of danger expertly, winning a foul or making his pass each time.
These are in positions in which we have become accustomed to United losing possession as Casemiro is caught slacking on the ball – so to have a midfielder capable of evading this is a massive boost for the club.
Against Liverpool particularly this was a major issue, with Toby Collyer also getting caught – but early signs are Ugarte can avoid getting caught which could be a game-changer for Kobbie Mainoo.
With Ugarte, Mainoo could feel more secure that possession will be kept in the first third and this should in theory allow the No.37 to push further up the pitch without having to make those gut-busting runs back as he has needed to when playing next to Casemiro.
How Manchester United No.25 fared in full debut
After a cameo against Southampton, Ugarte was in the starting line-up for the first time against Barnsley and although it was League One opposition he still put in a performance which impressed Ten Hag and which we can take positives from.
Playing as the deepest-lying midfielder, Ugarte made 10 defensive actions, three interceptions and three recoveries. He did only win a third of his 12 duels but this number will improve as he learns the team’s system and where to be when.
Ugarte played 37 passes in his 62 minutes, completing 32 of them. Ugarte completed two of three long balls which demonstrated another of his qualities he can complete long-range passes for fun.
It was far from the kind of display we expect him to be putting in this season and against a poor opponent, but it is a solid beginning which we expect he will build on going forward.
Early signs are Ugarte could be an excellent signing – but he still has plenty to do in order to fully impress fans.
Receive a digest of our best United content each week direct to your mailbox
