The Incident at Stockport Station

Recently, an image of Manuel Ugarte flipping off photographers at Stockport Station grabbed public attention and sparked rampant speculation about his character. However, a closer look reveals that Ugarte was reacting to autograph hunters hounding United players, not the media. Club staff clarified that his gesture was more aimed at those nuisances rather than the photographer, who had no prior interaction with him.

The Trouble with Autograph Seekers

Autograph seekers, often known to annoy players after matches, have been a nuisance for United. This troubling trend comes amid heightened demand for signed memorabilia, with many waiting outside venues like Manchester Cathedral just to catch a glimpse or an autograph from the players. Some fans have even taken to following players home, which raises concerns about privacy and security.

A Similar Situation for Mason Mount

In a similar vein, Mason Mount found himself in a bit of a pickle during his first summer at the club; after rejecting autograph requests, he was unjustly branded as the villain of the story. Ugarte’s response to the autograph hunters was understandably more direct, emphasizing the odd pressures players face.

Ugarte's Role in United's Midfield

Under the management of Erik ten Hag, Manchester United has been rebuilding with a focus on tenacity, a quality that players like Lisandro Martinez and Casemiro brought to the field. However, with Casemiro's performance waning, fans were starting to wonder who could fill that pivotal role. Enter Ugarte, who's quickly proving to be a crucial midfielder following his move from Sporting, where he thrived under Ruben Amorim.

A Significant Transfer Journey

Originally, Ugarte was not part of Ten Hag’s immediate plans. Yet, the former sporting director Dan Ashworth recognized his potential and laid the groundwork for his recruitment. Ironically, it was a potential move for another player, Sander Berge, that raised Ugarte's price tag before his eventual transfer to United.

Dramatic Squad Introduction

His introduction to the squad was dramatic—unveiled on the pitch just before a match against Liverpool, his presence became even more significant after Casemiro's injury woes appeared to create a gap in midfield. Ugarte's physicality and mental acuity on the pitch began to shine through shortly thereafter.

A Memorable Match Against Liverpool

The 2-2 draw against Liverpool was particularly noteworthy as it was Ugarte's fifth start, and the first time the duo of him and teammate Kobbie Mainoo managed to avoid defeat together. After a match filled with intensity and emotion, it was Ugarte who received praise from supporters, further solidifying his place among the hearts of the United fanbase.

Connection with Lisandro Martinez

His bond with fellow South American player Lisandro Martinez has not gone unnoticed, with the pair reportedly spending significant time together, sharing cultural moments and engaging in the traditional drinking of Mate tea. With a squad rich in Spanish speakers, Ugarte has taken steps to improve his English, aiming to bridge the language barrier quickly.

Influence of Edinson Cavani

A formative influence during Ugarte's international career has been Edinson Cavani, who, during their time together on the Uruguayan national team, provided invaluable insights about the demands of playing for Manchester United.

Contrasting Past Transfers

Contrary to some of the club's past transfer misfires, Ugarte seems to be finding his footing. After being let go by Paris Saint-Germain, he appeared ready to prove his worth in the Premier League. He's been setting an example by being one of the last players to leave Carrington each day and consistently pushing himself during extra gym sessions—reflecting a determination that manifests on match day.

Family Background and Work Ethic

Adding to this narrative, Ugarte's connection to his family roots, with his father having played semi-professional football in Uruguay, informs his relentless work ethic on the field. His upbringing, where he often played with his brother and father in local parks, contributed to the mental and physical fortitude he displays today.

Support for Manager Amorim

As the club navigates the dynamics of its dressing room, Ugarte’s enthusiasm for newly appointed manager Amorim stands out. He offered support and insights to his teammates about what they could expect from Amorim after his sacking of Ten Hag. Ugarte's rich experiences, including stories about Marcelo Bielsa, have further cemented his role as an engaging presence within the squad.

Looking Ahead: Ugarte's Future at Manchester United

As Ugarte continues to adapt to life at Manchester United, many are eager to see how he evolves into a key player for the team, potentially shaping their future as he develops into one of the league's standout midfielders.