Manuel Ugarte is officially a Manchester United player, and while some first-team squad players will be elated with his arrival – some will feel somewhat disappointed.
Manuel Ugarte becomes the latest Erik ten Hag signing – and what a signing it could be. Over the first few games in the Premier League season, it’s been evident there is a gaping hole in the midfield that needs filling.
And the Uruguayan should do just that. An absolute workhorse, Ugarte will provide that tough-tackling, non-stop battling nature that Casemiro should have provided – provided his legs hadn’t gone.
So who comes out best because of this deal? Who won’t be a fan? Here are two winners and two losers as Ugarte completes his Manchester United move.
Winner – Kobbie Mainoo
The undeniable winner in this deal simply has to be Kobbie Mainoo. Since emerging onto the scene at Old Trafford, it has become clear that Mainoo’s qualities suit best to a more attacking role, playing in an eight.
With little to no defensive cover last campaign, Mainoo was forced to occupy areas he potentially shouldn’t – no more with Ugarte.
The former PSG man can now do the dirty work which allows Mainoo to thrive in a more advanced role. Nice.
Loser – Casemiro
Of course, the five-time Champions League winner Casemiro is the obvious loser here. It’s been clear to many since his second season in red that he isn’t the player he once was.
The Brazilian will now surely be second choice to Ugarte, meaning he’ll have to fight for his place around Carrington – which could turn out to be a good thing.
Healthy competition between two midfield warriors, it’ll be interesting to see how Casemiro reacts to being second string for probably the first time in his illustrious career.
Winner – Bruno Fernandes
Alongside Mainoo, another midfielder who will surely reap the benefits of Ugarte’s arrival has to be the Manchester United captain, Bruno Fernandes.
If you look at the running stats for United over the years in recent times, it’s clear to see that Bruno is like our very own Mo Farah. The boy simply doesn’t stop running, which sometimes has negative effects on his attacking presence.
Now, he can operate in the ten role indefinitely – which should lead to plenty more chances, and hopefully more goals this season for Manchester United.
Loser – Toby Collyer
The final loser is Toby Collyer. The Manchester United academy star was on top of the world in pre-season but will be feeling slightly unnerved by the arrival of Ugarte.
Now with two senior squad members ahead of him, it’s unlikely that without injuries Collyer will be given much of a chance, particularly in big matches.
Expect to see him in some Europa League and Carabao Cup clashes – but it looks like Collyer will have to wait a little longer to really get his time in the limelight.
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