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1 month ago
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In the summer of 2023, Manuel Ugarte decided to sign for Paris Saint-Germain for a check for €60 million. But the Uruguayan’s career could have taken a very different trajectory. Indeed, the midfielder could have packed his bags in England, he who was in the sights of Liverpool, Aston Villa or even Chelsea. Finally, he was convinced by Luis Campos and his agent, Jorge Mendes, who did everything for him to sign for the French champions. But his adventure in France was not really a cakewalk. Passed from starter to replacement, he did not really convince Luis Enrique, who opened the door to his departure once the transfer window came.
Very quickly, Manchester United positioned itself to welcome him. But discussions with PSG extended throughout the summer. We even wondered at one point if the Red Devils, who considered his price too high, were not going to change targets. Finally, they got to the bottom of things and ended up signing a check for €60 million (with bonus) in Paris, which retains 10% on a future resale. Arriving on August 30 at MU, Ugarte was finally able to launch his new adventure. He also explained his choice: “ first and foremost, it’s his story, because we all know what a huge club United are — one of the best teams in the world. I’m really excited. I would love to experience the legendary MU stadium as a player and feel the presence of the supporters. »
A very disappointing performance
Then he added: “ I also spoke with one or two players – with Bruno and Lisandro Martínez – and I talked a lot. So yes, I’m really delighted and above all impatient and excited, although I am obviously aware that it is a big responsibility and I am prepared for it. I also spoke a lot with Facundo Pellistri and he told me everything. The atmosphere that emerges, the atmosphere that is created on match day at Old Trafford. This is all incredible. » After the international break in September, the former Sporting CP player was finally able to play his first minutes in his new colors. On September 14, he came on for 17 minutes in the 3–0 victory over Southampton.
After a first start in the League Cup against Barnsley on September 17 (7-0, 62 minutes played), he continued on September 21 in the league against Crystal Palace (0-0, 14 minutes played). Then, Ugarte was started on Wednesday evening in the Europa League against Twente (1-1). On the meadow for 90 minutes, he had a very difficult evening. The English press did not spare him yesterday. “ He struggled to distinguish himself during his second tenure. He remained on the field for the duration of the match, but struggled to make a noticeable impact all evening », wrote the Manchester Evening News. The Sun gave him a score of 6, adding that he made a few good tackles, but above all he could have done better.
Already doubts about him
Aware of his failed performance, the player expressed his mea-culpa on Instagram after the meeting. “ I am the first to be self-critical. It wasn’t a great match, from a personal point of view. We must continue to work “, he wrote. Words which caused a reaction this Friday Manchester Evening News who wrote: Manchester United face the alarming reality of Manuel Ugarte after honest admission. Manuel Ugarte made his second start for Manchester United on Wednesday night, but he produced a disappointing performance. There are things to appreciate about a 23-year-old taking responsibility for his failed performance, considering how many United players could have been accused of not doing so on Wednesday night. »
THE MEN continues: “ but Ugarte’s performance reminds us of the road that remains to be covered. Ten Hag is right that Ugarte needs time, and it may be weeks or even months before we see the best version of the former PSG player. United fans were hoping they had picked up a ready-made player to fix their midfield, but that was never the case. Ugarte could be a brilliant midfielder for United in the years to come, but the fact is that it will take a lot more than just one signing to fix their midfield. » In Manchester, where we were disappointed by Casemiro, we already have some doubts about Manuel Ugarte.
