Ruben Amorim takes responsibility for Manchester United star’s error vs West Ham United

Taking accountability

After the final whistle at the London Stadium, talking to the club’s official website, Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim attempted to shield Manuel Ugarte from direct criticism. Yet, the performance itself left little room for excuses. United were sluggish, indecisive, and lacking energy across the pitch, with slow decision-making in the backline and a disjointed midfield failing to bridge the gaps in transitions.

Despite Amorim’s efforts to soften the blow, the signs of a fractured and vulnerable team were clear. At a stage of the season when much more than just a result is at stake, United once again showcased their inability to rise to the occasion. The sense of disconnection was palpable, and with crucial fixtures ahead, the pressure to find solutions is mounting.

“I don’t want to talk about specific players. It’s a team thing. When it’s a team thing, it’s a manager thing. We will have to address that. It has to be a lack of urgency to defend the box and attack the box still.”

Despite the recent criticism, Manuel Ugarte remains a player with undeniable qualities. The Uruguayan midfielder possesses the ability to read the game, anticipate attacks, and close down spaces effectively. When on form, he injects much-needed energy into United’s midfield, offering a vital shield in front of the backline.

Ugarte’s presence becomes particularly valuable when the opposition presses high, as his positioning and ability to disrupt attacks can relieve pressure on the defence. Additionally, he has shown flashes of influence higher up the pitch, involving himself in key moves around the opponent’s box.

However, the key to Ugarte fulfilling his potential lies in consistency. When he keeps it simple, his impact is noticeable. But when he overcomplicates things, mistakes creep in, as seen against West Ham. If he can iron out those errors and maintain his composure, Ugarte could still play a pivotal role in United’s midfield structure moving forward.

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With the Europa League final fast approaching, Manuel Ugarte finds himself at a crossroads. His place in the starting lineup is no longer assured, and manager Ruben Amorim is likely weighing his options. In a game of such magnitude, where composure and reliability are paramount, Ugarte’s inconsistency could see him relegated to the bench.

Casemiro, with his wealth of experience and defensive acumen, appears a safer bet for Amorim as he seeks to stabilise a midfield that has been prone to costly errors. If Ugarte is omitted, the message will be unmistakable; sporadic flashes of quality are not enough. In high-stakes encounters, consistency and discipline take precedence over potential.

Ugarte still has time to prove his worth, but not much. With his recent mistakes still fresh in the memory, the midfielder must demonstrate that he can rise to the occasion and eradicate the lapses in concentration that have plagued his performances. Anything less, and he risks watching the most important game of the season from the sidelines.