Manuel Ugarte
Man UtdCM
Ball-Winning Midfielder
Apr 11, 2001 (25)
Right
6'0"
170 lb
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Free to move forward
Ugarte registered two shots (one on goal) and two interceptions in Monday's 1-1 draw against Saudi Arabia.
Analysis: Ugarte was Uruguay's most defensive-minded midfielder. However, since Saudi Arabia didn't offer much of a threat, the Manchester United midfielder pushed forward when he had the chance to do so. Even in that scenario, Ugarte's defensive-minded role should limit his upside, even if the Cape Verde game on Sunday can be favorable on paper.
Expected to start in midfield
Ugarte has been named in Uruguay's World Cup squad and is expected to start in midfield under coach Marcelo Bielsa, arriving at the tournament after a difficult season with Manchester United that saw him struggle for consistent playing time.
Analysis: Ugarte posted 46 tackles and 20 interceptions across 22 appearances including just eight starts this season, a frustrating campaign that limited his ability to build rhythm and confidence at club level. His defensive intensity, ability to press aggressively and win the ball in dangerous areas remain his most important attributes, and the freedom of international football alongside Federico Valverde and Rodrigo Bentancur could allow him to rediscover his best form at exactly the right time. For Uruguay, Ugarte provides the defensive foundation in midfield that allows the more creative players around him to express themselves going forward, and his physicality and relentless style of play make him a difficult player for opponents to contain.
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