Should Man Utd Sell Their £150K-a-Week 'Wet Blanket' Next?

Manchester United's precarious position early in the season has raised significant concerns, particularly following their humiliating defeat to Grimsby Town in the Carabao Cup and a meagre tally of just one win in the Premier League. Among the players under scrutiny is Manuel Ugarte, whose underwhelming performances since joining from Paris Saint-Germain have led many to believe he should be shown the exit come January.

Last updated: 24 October 2023 (BST)

• Manchester United has struggled in the early weeks of the season, with only one Premier League win.
• Manuel Ugarte's performance since joining from PSG has been disappointing, raising calls for his departure.
• His presence in the squad is seen as hindering the development of young talent like Kobbie Mainoo.
• Ugarte's high salary of £150,000-per-week is a burden on the club's finances.
• Interest from Serie A clubs suggests potential opportunities for a transfer in January.

Manchester United's Troubling Start to the Season

The 2023/2024 season has not commenced well for Manchester United, as they find themselves near the bottom of the Premier League table. The team's recent performances have sparked criticism from fans and pundits alike. A particularly low point came when they faced Grimsby Town in the Carabao Cup, leading to calls for significant changes within the squad.

Manuel Ugarte: A Missed Opportunity?

Manuel Ugarte was brought in for a hefty fee, reportedly up to £50.5 million from PSG, with high hopes of bolstering Manchester United's midfield. However, his performances have been far from the expectations set when he joined. Instead of being the dynamic midfielder the club sought, Ugarte has frequently been described as ineffective and underwhelming. His inability to protect the backline as intended was glaringly evident during Manchester City's recent derby victory.

Criticism of Ugarte's Performance

Former footballers and pundits have expressed their disappointment with Ugarte's contributions on the pitch. Craig Burley, a former Scotland international, notably referred to the 24-year-old as a 'wet blanket', highlighting the lack of impact he has made. This criticism is compounded by his apparent inability to adapt to the rigours of Premier League football. The pressure is mounting for Ugarte to deliver, and if he fails to impress in upcoming fixtures, his position within the team may be seriously reconsidered.

The Need for Change in Midfield

Ugarte's presence on the pitch is not only hindering his own performance but also stifling the development of young players like Kobbie Mainoo. Mainoo, who has shown considerable promise, is finding it difficult to secure a regular starting spot, partly due to Ugarte's consistent inclusion in the line-up. For Manchester United to reclaim their competitive edge, they must prioritise the development of their youth talent over the stagnation of underperforming players.

Impact on Young Talent

Mainoo's rise through the ranks was promising, but Ugarte's continued presence in the starting XI has pushed him towards considering a loan move to gain valuable experience. The club needs to reassess its priorities, focusing on nurturing young talent who can contribute to their long-term success rather than relying on players who have yet to prove their worth.

Financial Implications of Ugarte's Contract

Ugarte's contract reportedly sees him earning £150,000 per week, a significant financial commitment for a player who has yet to deliver on the pitch. With Manchester United's current struggles, offloading Ugarte could provide much-needed financial relief as well as open up opportunities for younger players. The club's ability to manoeuvre in the transfer market may hinge on their success in reducing the wage bill and reallocating those funds towards more impactful signings.

Potential Transfers and Future Prospects

Despite Manchester United's reluctance to part ways with Ugarte during the summer transfer window, there are indications that clubs in Serie A are still interested in acquiring his services. According to senior reporter Fabrizio Romano, Ugarte could be allowed to leave as early as January 2026, but that timeline may change if formal bids are made. Manchester United would be wise to consider any offers seriously, particularly if they want to turn their season around and get back on track.

Looking Ahead: Tough Matches and Critical Decisions

With a challenging match against Chelsea on the horizon, head coach Ruben Amorim faces crucial decisions regarding his starting line-up. Ugarte's performances will undoubtedly be scrutinised. If he continues to falter, it may be time for Amorim to make a bold decision and drop him. The coming weeks will be pivotal for both Ugarte and Manchester United as they seek to re-establish themselves as contenders in the Premier League.

What Happens Next?

As Manchester United navigates the difficult waters of the current season, all eyes will be on Ugarte and his future at the club. The January transfer window looms, and the club must weigh the benefits of letting him go against the potential risks of keeping a player who has not met expectations. The situation remains fluid, and the outcome may hinge on Ugarte's performances in the coming weeks.

As Manchester United fans brace themselves for a potentially tumultuous season, the question remains: can the club turn its fortunes around, or will they continue to struggle under the weight of disappointing signings? The next few months will be critical in determining their path forward. #ManchesterUnited #PremierLeague #Ugarte

FAQs

Why is Manuel Ugarte being criticised at Manchester United?

Manuel Ugarte has faced criticism due to his underwhelming performances since joining the team, failing to deliver the expected impact in midfield and often being described as ineffective.

How has Ugarte affected the development of Kobbie Mainoo?

Ugarte's consistent inclusion in the starting line-up has limited Mainoo's opportunities, hindering his development as a promising young talent within the club.

What is Ugarte's current salary at Manchester United?

Manuel Ugarte reportedly earns £150,000 per week, a significant financial burden for a player whose performances have not justified such a high salary.

Are there any clubs interested in signing Ugarte?

Yes, clubs in Serie A have shown interest in Ugarte, and there is a possibility he could be allowed to leave Manchester United in upcoming transfer windows.

What are the implications of Ugarte's contract for Manchester United?

Ugarte's substantial salary poses financial implications for Manchester United, as offloading him could relieve wage pressures and free up funds for other signings.