"He will be able to help stop that problem" – Ex-Manchester United defender highlights how Manuel Ugarte can help struggling Red Devils this season

Former Manchester United defender Mikael Silvestre has asserted that Uruguayan midfielder Manuel Ugarte could mend a number of issues for the Red Devils in the 2024-25 season.

Earlier on the summer transfer deadline day, the Red Devils signed the Uruguayan from Ligue 1 side Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). They dished out an initial fee of £42 million and will potentially pay an additional £8.5 million to the Parisians in add-ons in the future.

So far, Ugarte has started three of his five appearances across all competitions for Manchester United this season. He has helped his new team register two wins and one loss, featuring in 256 minutes of action.

Speaking to Tribal Football, Silvestre claimed that Ugarte is a stellar signing for his former club and suggested that the ex-Sporting CP man should be handed enough minutes. He said:

"I think Ugarte is a great signing. He probably cost United more than he should have, but that happens in football. Manuel needs a strong partner next to him for him to perform to the best of his ability, and he'll need consistent game time. The [0-0] game against Aston Villa would have suited him perfectly because it was compact and that's the type of game he thrives in. He loves to battle."

Sharing further thoughts on the 23-year-old, Silvestre concluded:

"Manchester United lack structure and compactness... they let players walk through their midfield or break the lines too easily. Manuel will be able to help stop that problem, but he won't be able to solve all the problems by himself. However, I predict him to be a great asset for United."

Ugarte, who has a contract until June 2029 at Old Trafford, is next likely to start his club's league home encounter against Brentford this Saturday.

Manchester United decide to let go of star

According to Caught Offside, Manchester United have made Antony available both on loan or a permanent switch. Newcastle United, Crystal Palace, and Ajax are all keen to launch a winter move for the winger.

Antony, 24, has drastically fallen down the Red Devils' pecking order this term. He has started just one contest in all competitions and has found the back of net once in four total appearances so far this season.

Since leaving Ajax in a potential £86 million transfer in the summer of 2022, Antony has failed to live up to expectations. He has registered 12 goals and five assists in 86 overall matches for Manchester United.