- Manuel Ugarte on ‘difficult’ season with Man Utd
- Uruguayan has struggled
- A potential sale is on the cards
Manuel Ugarte has admitted it’s been a difficult season for him at Manchester United despite his team qualifying for the UEFA Champions League. The Uruguayan midfielder has been at Old Trafford since the summer of 2024.
United paid Paris Saint-Germain £50m for Ugarte, who the Parisians replaced with Joao Neves. The deal was viewed as a coup by a large section of the club’s fanbase.
The 25-year-old has failed to live up to the hype and is way down Michael Carrick’s pecking order. The soon-to-be permanent head coach even opted for Mason Mount over Ugarte in a 0-0 draw against Sunderland two weeks ago.
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Manuel Ugarte opens up on struggles
Ugarte has reflected on the tough campaign he’s experienced and thanked those who stuck by him. He wrote on Instagram:
“Season with many difficult moments, but always smiling. Thank you to my family who always supported me from afar and to you love who stood by my side on the toughest days.”
The Uruguayan has made 24 appearances across competitions this season. He has started just eight of 22 league games.
Speculation is growing over his future ahead of the summer transfer window. With United set for a midfield overhaul, there is an expectation that he will depart.
Ugarte hasn’t helped himself amid reports claiming that he is the first to leave training. That is a sign of a player who isn’t enjoying their football and as a result must be sold.
Not part of Man Utd’s plans
Ugarte just hasn’t been a good fit for United, and his performances have left much to be desired. While no one expected him to be a creative machine, his poor ball retention is a major concern.
The Red Devils are already preparing for Casemiro’s exit in June when his contract expires. He likely won’t be the only midfielder who parts ways this summer.
Selling Ugarte won’t just benefit United but the player too as he’ll be able to try and get his career back on track. He showed his ability during his time at Sporting CP where there is less of a spotlight on players.
Carrick needs at least two new midfielders this summer and Ugarte won’t have many opportunities if he stays. Now that he’s made clear he’s been through a troubling season, the writing is on the wall.
