Manchester United’s newest signing Manuel Ugarte enjoyed a return to form in Uruguay’s 0-0 draw with Ecuador.
The 23-year-old’s start to life at Old Trafford has been far from ideal as he has failed to nail down a starting spot in Erik ten Hag’s team in spite of a hefty transfer fee.
He is reportedly already regretting his choice to come to United but the club is confident they will fully integrate him when the club returns to action this weekend.
Ugarte played in an unfamiliar role in the center of defense last time out for Uruguay but last night started in his more conventional midfield position beside Real Madrid’s Federico Valverde.
Uruguay failed to score again as they had 55% of the ball and 11 shots on goal, in their fourth draw in ten qualifiers.
The United midfielder was given a score of 7.3 on Sofascore as he played 82 minutes of the encounter in the Centenario Stadium in Montevideo.
He had 57 touches of the ball and made an impressive 39 of his 44 passes for a completion accuracy of 89%.
Ugarte showed off his passing range as he made one key pass in the game and 100% of his three long balls found their intended target.
As usual, he was combative in the middle of the pitch, winning five out of a contested eight ground duels but did not compete for any aerial battles.
The Uruguayan got through some more important defensive work, making one clearance and blocking one shot.
In addition, he made four tackles and two interceptions as he helped his side keep yet another clean sheet.
After significant game time once again for his national team, Ugarte will be hopeful he will now get his chance to play regularly for United, especially as Kobbie Mainoo will seemingly be on the treatment table for a while.
Featured image Ernesto Ryan via Getty Images
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