Manchester United fans were ecstatic with Manuel Ugarte's performance in the 5-2 win over Leicester City in the League Cup on Wednesday night (October 30). Bruno Fernandes (36' and 59') and Casemiro (15' and 39') scored two goals each, while Alejandro Garnacho (28') also got on the scoresheet to mark a fruitful night for interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy.
However, Ugarte was the unsung hero for the Red Devils in the middle of the park. The Uruguayan registered 75 touches on the ball and had a 90 percent pass accuracy. He registered nine recoveries, eight passes into the final third, and won all four of his tackles attempted.
He also registered two interceptions and won both of his aerial duels. His efforts helped Manchester United dominate the game and come out deserved winners.
Fans were full of praise for Ugarte on social media after the game. One of them suggested that he will excel under incoming manager Ruben Amorim, commenting:
"All the flashy stuff is all well and good, but there’s a special place in my heart for someone who does the simple things well. And that’s Manuel Ugarte to a tee. We’ve need his type of profile for AGES and I think he will shine back under Amorim."
Another fan posted:
"Don’t let this Manuel Ugarte performance go under the radar. Brilliant performance."
Mark Goldbridge urged Manchester United fans who doubted the player to get back on the hype train. He wrote:
"Not using Ugarte always pissed me off. Those "United' fans who wrote him off and ridiculed him after a few cameos better get back on the hype train."
One fan suggested that the Red Devils had signed a top player, stating:
"A real anchor in midfield. We really signed a top player"
Another posted:
"Interception Machine!"
One fan labeled Manuel Ugarte as the Man of the Match against Leicester City, commenting:
"Not seen enough appreciation for Ugarte tonight, was our MOTM IMO. Top performance."
Another wrote:
"He just needs a decent run in the team to fit in properly, which he didn't get under Ten Hag"
One fan pointed out that Ugarte had registered a top performance, quipping:
"He performed like a monster today"
The result helped Manchester United progress to the quarterfinals of the EFL Cup, where they will face Tottenham Hotspur in December.
When will Ruben Amorim take charge at Manchester United?
Manchester United are already in talks with Sporting CP to secure the services of Ruben Amorim as Erik ten Hag's replacement. Recent reports have suggested that the Red Devils are ready to pay the Portuguese manager's €10m release clause.
The two parties are locked in talks to expedite the process. The Portuguese giants want an additional €5m for Amorim's coaching staff, plus extra fees to waive his 30-day notice period.
It has been mentioned that Manchester United are eager to have their new manager in the dugout for the home league game against Chelsea on Sunday, November 3. However, a report from talkSPORT claims Amorim might arrive at Old Trafford on November 10.