Manchester United are prioritising a new striker as Ruben Amorim’s next summer signing, with RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko earmarked as the top target. However, Sunday’s final pre-season tour match against Everton reaffirmed that the Red Devils would be better off if they focused on bolstering their midfield instead.
Supporters shared optimism about Manuel Ugarte after an impressive display in the opening Premier League Summer Series victory over West Ham United. Amorim paired him with Kobbie Mainoo again to face the Toffees, but he was on the receiving end of similar criticism as last season during the Atlanta meeting.
United boasted an abundance of technical quality for most of the match. Bryan Mbeumo made his debut, starting alongside Matheus Cunha, Bruno Fernandes, Amad and Mainoo.
But it looked like Ugarte simply couldn’t keep up with the tempo his teammates were attempting to maintain.
The 24-year-old repeatedly lost possession under pressure and was culpable in the build-up to Everton’s first-half equaliser.
United cannot afford stragglers in the team if Amorim’s system is to succeed in the Premier League, but Ugarte simply looks out of place.
You can put out the most dynamic attack possible, but it counts for very little if your midfield is out of sync and laden with mistakes.
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United’s need for an energetic midfielder to partner Bruno Fernandes has been obvious all summer.
The 30-year-old started further forward against Everton, but he will have a permanent tenancy deeper once Mbeumo is up to speed.
Ugarte does not look capable of shouldering the defensive responsibility if Fernandes is to advance and continue chipping in with goals.
If United are to sign Sesko, they will likely have to commit above £70m to beat Newcastle United to his signature and lure him to Old Trafford.
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If there is to be no room for further additions beyond a striker, Amorim must pivot and focus those funds towards his engine room.
INEOS could be reluctant to cut their losses and lose faith in Ugarte just over a year after splurging £50m to sign him from Paris Saint-Germain.
But they have already proven their willingness to make tough decisions so that mistakes don’t snowball into something bigger. Ask Dan Ashworth.
Not having the same attitude with Ugarte’s status could be the latest hiccup to slow Amorim’s project down.