Old Trafford has once again become the center of headlines after Manuel Ugarte made a startling revelation about his Manchester United future. The Uruguayan midfielder, who only arrived at the club not long ago with high expectations, has openly admitted that his time with the Red Devils may already be drawing to a premature close. In a candid admission, Ugarte confessed that United have already reached an agreement with another midfielder who is set to replace him as early as the January transfer window.
Speaking bluntly about the situation, Ugarte said: *“I had just a slight dip in form, and already they’ve lined up a dangerous midfielder to take my place in January. I can’t compete with that kind of signing, so I’ve decided I will leave.”*
When United signed him, the belief was that he would become the tough, combative presence their midfield had been missing for years—someone who could shield the defense, allow Casemiro to rotate when needed, and bring balance alongside Bruno Fernandes. Yet, only a few months into his stay, things appear to have soured. Reports indicate Erik ten Hag has already made up his mind, asking Ugarte to start looking for a new club before the winter window opens.
Although Ugarte refused to publicly disclose the identity of the midfielder United are targeting, rumors have quickly spread around the club and among journalists. High-profile names such as João Neves of Benfica and Manuel Locatelli of Juventus have been linked, though no official confirmation has been made. Even so, Ugarte himself seems convinced the club’s hierarchy has finalized their choice and sees no future for him in Manchester. Expressing his frustration, he admitted: *“I gave everything I could, but it wasn’t enough. They’ve already chosen someone else, and so I’ll leave in January.”*
This bombshell has sharply divided Manchester United fans. Many supporters feel the club has acted far too quickly, arguing that Ugarte deserves more time to adapt to the pace, physicality, and intensity of Premier League football. Others, however, have embraced the news, more interested in speculating who the “dangerous” midfield recruit might be, hoping the club pulls off a blockbuster signing in the upcoming window.
As for Ugarte, his representatives are already weighing up the next move. Sources close to the player claim that several Serie A and La Liga clubs are monitoring his situation, with a potential loan-to-buy arrangement currently being explored.
What’s clear is that Ugarte’s spell at Manchester United may go down as one of the briefest in recent memory—a transfer that started with so much optimism but now looks destined to collapse before it ever had the chance to properly take shape.
