Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has delivered a candid assessment of midfielder Manuel Ugarte’s difficult adaptation to English football while addressing the potential January departures of Kobbie Mainoo and Joshua Zirkzee.
MANCHESTER – As Manchester United build momentum in their push for Champions League qualification, manager Ruben Amorim has openly acknowledged the struggles of summer signing Manuel Ugarte, whose adaptation to Premier League football has proven more challenging than anticipated.
The Uruguayan international, who arrived with considerable expectations following his €60 million move, has failed to secure a consistent starting role under Amorim. When questioned about Ugarte’s form, the Portuguese tactician offered a frank evaluation.
“You can sense that a lot of very good players come here, and sometimes they struggle,” Amorim told reporters. “He is struggling in the moment. But it is our job to try to help our players… I know that Ugarte is struggling and my job is trying to help him to feel as a player, like I felt when he was a Sporting player.“
Amorim emphasized that Ugarte’s difficulties stem from adapting to the unique demands of English football, noting the midfielder “needs to adapt and he needs to improve, especially in training.“
The midfield concerns have prompted United to consider January reinforcements, though Amorim remained cautious about specific targets. “I think we can add in the future. I don’t know when, different characteristics,” he stated, suggesting the club seeks a specific profile rather than simply adding numbers.
Meanwhile, the futures of squad players Kobbie Mainoo and Joshua Zirkzee remain uncertain, with both reportedly seeking more playing time ahead of next summer’s World Cup. Amorim adopted a pragmatic stance, prioritizing club interests above individual ambitions.
“The first thing is that the club comes first,” Amorim declared. “I want my players happy, I understand the frustration of some players, seeing that the World Cup is there. And I know what it means for the World Cup, but Manchester United comes first.“
United’s five-match unbeaten run has lifted them to within striking distance of the top four, though Amorim’s comments suggest the January transfer window could prove pivotal in addressing the squad’s evolving needs.