This season, Erik ten Hag has put Manchester United on a risky 3-1-6 scheme to help the team’s defence. The shape allows for a direct charge, but it leaves the team weak at the back, so a good defensive midfielder is very important. This is where Manuel Ugarte, who was just brought in from PSG, comes in.
Ugarte might not be a well-known name yet, but his defence could be very important in this new system. Ugarte can protect United’s back line and help the team move from defence to attack because he is good at winning balls and knowing where he is on the pitch. He is the “1” in Ten Hag’s scheme, which gives the attacking players the steadiness they need.
Some fans might not realise how important it was for United to sign Ugarte, but he is a key part of making sure that their bold new strategy works this season.