Manuel Ugarte has not even played 90 minutes of competitive action for Manchester United yet and he has already had to recover from what at the time appeared to be a nasty injury.
As he sat on the Old Trafford pitch in the 43rd minute of United’s Carabao Cup tie against Barnsley, blood was seen trickling down his knee, which appeared to be a problem for the new midfielder on his first start for the club.
During a clash with Luca Connell, Ugarte had his foot crushed by the Barnsley midfielder’s stud. The first few seconds were confusing as Ugarte was called for a foul and then his knee started bleeding, which was strange given that it wasn’t the point of contact.
Ugarte came off the pitch for treatment and there were some concerns for the United new signing, but he managed to carry on and was one of the best players in the game in the end.
? A painful moment for Ugarte, but he is up and doing well. #MUFC Carabao Cup pic.twitter.com/A7RGq5LQRR
— Stretford Paddock (@StretfordPaddck) September 17, 2024
The Uruguayan forward played a crucial role in United’s 7-0 victory over Barnsley, sending the Red Devils into the fourth round of the competition. He was eventually replaced in the 63rd minute with the game well in hand, probably more to protect himself than anything else, with Marcus Rashford and Diogo Dalot also being withdrawn at the same time.
His best moment came after half-time, when he won the ball back to put United ahead before their fourth goal, scored by Alejandro Garnacho.
Arriving from PSG for $55.6 million (€50 million) on trade closing day this summer, Ugarte is a key part of United’s prospects this season. The club offloaded long-serving midfielder Scott McTominay to make room for the Uruguayan, a sign that Erik ten Hag will be a major factor in their future.
