Manchester United interim boss Michael Carrick suggests Manuel Ugarte still has a significant role to play under him.
Manuel Ugarte’s move to Manchester United has not really gone according to plan. Despite his struggles at PSG, the Red Devils forked out an initial €50 million to sign him in the summer of 2024. While they were looking at him as someone who could take over from Casemiro in the long run, the South American midfielder has failed to establish himself in their team.
While he was involved in 45 matches and racked up close to 3,000 minutes during his debut campaign, he still could not establish himself as an important part of Ruben Amorim’s plans. He has been a backup option for the Red Devils throughout the ongoing campaign, racking up just 877 minutes across competitions.
The player was hoping that the managerial change would give him a chance to revive his Manchester United career. However, things have not been that great for him under interim boss Michael Carrick. Despite being an unused substitute in three out of the six matches, the 44-year-old has insisted that Ugarte has a big part to play going forward.
Michael Carrick on Manuel Ugarte’s situation
While speaking about the 24-year-old’s situation at the club, Carrick said via SkySports, “I like Manu a lot, he’s been terrific around the group with his attitude and how we go about it, his training qualities, he’s got a lot of good attributes. When the team is winning, there is a big upside to that.
“For one or two boys who haven’t played as much, it makes it a little bit tougher to get in the team, but everyone is pushing each other. Many are desperate to get on the pitch a bit more. There are times when we might need to change things, and he’s a big part of that.”
Ugarte remains in Carrick’s plans
Manuel Ugarte is yet to start a game under Michael Carrick, and he has racked up just 27 minutes in his three substitute appearances. Given his role in the team, the former PSG midfielder has been constantly linked with a move away from the club. Quite a few clubs are interested in the 24-year-old defensive midfielder.
The Uruguayan international also seems frustrated by the lack of minutes, but Carrick suggests he has been very professional in training. The 44-year-old is pleased with his behaviour despite the fact that he has not had much game time in recent weeks.
The Manchester United boss suggested that they might have to change things up in the coming weeks, and Ugarte could end up playing a big part. The Uruguayan midfielder remains an important part of his plans, as we head into the final phase of the season.
