Erik ten Hag must instantly integrate £42 million star despite concerns – opinion

After an embarrassing 3-0 defeat to Liverpool at Old Trafford last Sunday, it was clear that the current midfield set-up under Erik ten Hag needs to change.

Manchester United completed the deadline-day transfer of Uruguayan midfielder Manuel Ugarte.

When the Red Devils boss was asked about the new transfer in his post-match conference, the Dutch coach poured cold water on the hopes that Ugarte would be involved instantly.

Speaking to the media via the official Premier League website the former Ajax boss said: “If you see 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 them in the team and then I’m sure he will contribute to our level.”

“He will be an important player but that will take a couple of weeks maybe even months.”

Erik ten Hag must integrate Manuel Ugarte vs Southampton

Despite the 54-year-old coach being concerned about Ugarte’s fitness, the former Sporting Lisbon star has been training with the Uruguayan national team in the current international break.

Casemiro’s disastrous performance against Liverpool highlighted the need for defensive legs in midfield and Ugarte’s abilities will be an instant benefit to the Manchester United midfield.

With a disappointing start to the season with one win and two defeats, pressure will undoubtedly mount on Ten Hag if the current form continues after the international break.

The first fixture back facing the Red Devils is a 12:30 kick-off (UK time) vs Southampton at the St Mary’s Stadium.

The United boss may have to use Ugarte sooner than he had planned because he cannot afford to continue getting bad results.

The Southampton fixture is a winnable game compared to the following Premier League fixtures of Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park. Tottenham at Old Trafford, and a tough trip to Villa Park to face Unai Emery’s Aston Villa.

It will be a tough month of football for the Red Devils boss but he must consider using the new summer additions to improve results and ease the pressure on his United side.