Has Manchester United found a replacement for Casemiro? The answer lies in the hands of their new signing, Manuel Ugarte! Will he play against Southampton in their third Premier League match? Well, this answer lies in the hands of their boss, Erik ten Hag. And, as per the latest reports coming out from Old Trafford, we may well see the 23-year-old defensive midfielder making his debut for the Red Devils later tonight.

Previously, ten Hag mentioned that there were concerns about his fitness but later on, the Dutchman stated that Ugarte is almost clear to participate in this match. However, it’ll be interesting to see if starts this match or comes in as a substitute. Previously during Uruguay’s match against Paraguay and Venezuela in the World Cup qualifiers, we see him making a start in both of those matches. But he was subbed off later on. Manuel Ugarte even received a yellow card in his match against Venezuela, but he looked really impressive in that match.

After seeing Casemiro’s horrid performance against Liverpool, Man U was in serious need of a long-time replacement for the Brazilian. Speaking on the $55.16 signing from PSG, Erik ten Hag stated, “If you see Manuel Ugarte, he didn’t play so far in the season. Not one match minute.” He further stressed the fact that the Uruguayan may need some time to get settled with the team. Yet, he believes he’ll be an “important player” for the team. Speaking on his availability against Southampton, the coach assured, “Manuel Ugarte, we all have seen he played for Uruguay, he returned this afternoon, he was the only player who returned today, all the others returned yesterday so he is available for this game.“

Manchester United will enter this match after two consecutive defeats at the hands of Brighton and Liverpool in their previous matches. So, the pressure has already been mounting ten Hag. Regardless, he seems to be unmoved by all this stuff as he strongly believes the team is still in a transition process. So, we have already seen quite a few young players getting integrated into the team. This addition will surely boost their bench strength for the rest of the season. The Red Devils have struggled a lot with injuries and finding replacements over the last few seasons but they perhaps now don’t want to commit the same mistake. What does Manuel Ugarte have to say about joining United?

“I’m really excited” – Manuel Ugarte’s first reaction on joining the historic English club

MANUel is Red! During an interview with The Telegraph, ten Hag mentioned that he has been tracking Manuel Ugarte for quite some time now. H believes he will play a crucial role in connecting the defense with the attacking line and vice-versa. For the youngster, this is more of a dream come true moment!

Ugarte said that he’s well aware of the rich history of this club and he has already spoken to his compatriot Facundo Pellistri about what it takes to be a Man United player. Pellistri has already given him an idea about the atmosphere inside the iconic Old Trafford during the matches. Now, it’s time to relish those moments with his own eyes.

“I’m really excited. I’d love to experience United’s legendary stadium as a player and feel the presence of the supporters. I’ve watched a few games since the news started to come out…So yes, I’m really thrilled and more than anything eager and excited, while I obviously realize that it’s a great responsibility and I’m prepared for that.” So, the Uruguayan warrior is ready for the battle! And, the Red Devil fans have already started to flood his inboxes with messages. He’s hungry and so is Manchester United, it’s now time to deliver!