Is Manuel Ugarte a Good Fit for Manchester United?

Ugarte has carved out a niche in football as a defensive midfielder, prioritizing ball recovery over offensive contributions. Throughout his career, he has focused on regaining possession for his team, often opting for simple passes to more creative players. Despite his efforts, Ugarte has struggled to establish himself as a goal-scoring threat, netting only four goals in over 200 club appearances. His recent comments reflect a mindset centered on teamwork and ball control, emphasizing the importance of possession in the game. At Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), Ugarte's playing time has been limited, particularly in crucial Champions League matches, where coach Enrique has favored other midfielders. However, PSG's sporting director, Luis Campos, views Ugarte as a valuable signing with significant potential for improvement. His ball-winning capabilities could align well with Manchester United's tactical needs, especially as they seek to bolster their midfield following Casemiro's departure. Ugarte's style may be more effective in a lower-possession system, as evidenced by his performance during the Copa America, where Uruguay averaged 53% possession. In contrast, PSG's high-possession approach often limited Ugarte's forward passing opportunities. This raises questions about his adaptability to different tactical frameworks, particularly at Manchester United, where a more conservative passing style could enhance their build-up play. As United navigates their midfield dynamics, Ugarte could serve as a provisional defensive midfielder, providing essential support while the club seeks a long-term solution. His ability to win tackles and regain possession will be crucial as the team looks to solidify its defensive structure moving forward.