Manuel Ugarte Transfer to Manchester United: A Kante-Like Force in Midfield?

Manuel Ugarte: The Rising Star of Defensive Midfield

Manuel Ugarte has made headlines with his impressive statistics during his time in Ligue 1, showcasing an extraordinary talent that has put him on the radar of top clubs, including Manchester United. With a total of 98 tackles, Ugarte led all players in Ligue 1 last season while starting only 21 of 34 games for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), highlighting his exceptional ball-winning ability.

Unmatched Tackling Records

Ugarte's tackling prowess is not a new phenomenon. During his final season at Sporting CP, he achieved an astonishing 121 tackles in just 31 appearances, making him the top tackler in Portugal’s Primeira Liga. Across Europe’s top leagues, only Joao Palhinha has averaged a higher number of tackles per 90 minutes, a testament to Ugarte's defensive capabilities.

Analysis of Manchester United's Needs

Manchester United faced issues in their midfield last season, with Erik ten Hag’s side often caught off guard defensively. Ugarte, now a target for United, is seen as a potential solution due to his agility and tenacity. At only 23 years old, he has the potential to offer qualities the team desperately needs.

Managerial Praise and Style of Play

Former manager Juan Ramon Carrasco described Ugarte as having "seven lungs," indicating his relentless work ethic on the field. His current PSG boss, Luis Enrique, praised his ability to win the ball, while defender Lucas Hernandez compared him to N’Golo Kante, suggesting he could replicate Kante’s success in the Premier League.

Comparison with N'Golo Kante

The comparison to Kante is significant for United fans. If Ugarte can achieve even half of Kante's impact in the Premier League, he would be a worthy investment. Both players share an ability to dominate the field, making timely interceptions, and displaying an exceptional work rate. Ugarte ranked second in Ligue 1 for possessions won in the final third, indicative of his proactive defensive style.

Versatility in Midfield Positions

Ugarte has demonstrated adaptability in his playing style. Initially preferring a more traditional No. 6 role, he has gained experience playing alongside another midfielder, which could suit United's setup. At Sporting, he primarily operated in a double pivot alongside Hidemasa Morita, and at PSG, he paired with either Warren Zaire-Emery or Vitinha.

Supporting Young Talent at United

At United, Ugarte's presence could benefit emerging talents like Kobbie Mainoo, who had a breakout season. While Mainoo showcased offensive skills, he struggled defensively at times, particularly with Casemiro’s inability to cover space. Ugarte's physicality and efficiency with the ball would provide a strong partnership, enhancing both defensive and attacking play in the team.

Ball Retention and Passing Efficiency

While Ugarte is less adventurous in his passing compared to Casemiro, his 91% passing accuracy surpasses Casemiro’s 83%. This efficiency is crucial for a United side that struggled with ball retention last season; many defensive issues arose from poor control in midfield. Although Ugarte’s tendency to play conservative passes might frustrate some, he could offer stability in a midfield that requires a better foundation.

Conclusion

Overall, Ugarte represents a valuable asset for Manchester United as they aim to rebuild their midfield with quality and resilience. His capability to win back possession, coupled with his growing understanding of the game and supporters’ aspirations, positions him as a potential key player in the upcoming seasons.