Manchester United midfielder Manuel Ugarte received his first start for the club in the Carabao Cup match against Barnsley, and Mark Goldbridge has recommended that he retains his spot in the lineup against Crystal Palace.
The Uruguayan international had initially made an appearance off the bench against Southampton in the Premier League on Saturday, contributing to the team’s performance during the second half. As Erik ten Hag gradually integrates him into the squad, Ugarte started against Barnsley on Tuesday night.
As United prepares to return to Premier League action this Saturday with a trip to Crystal Palace, it remains to be seen whether ten Hag will include Ugarte in his starting XI.
Ten Hag Urged to Utilize Ugarte Against Palace
He was substituted off in the second half
Ugarte was substituted shortly after the hour mark as ten Hag aimed to revitalize the midfield. The manager now must decide on Ugarte’s place in the Premier League starting lineup for this weekend, but Goldbridge is confident that he will feature in the midfield…
“It’s safe to assume Ugarte starts against Palace after being substituted at 60 alongside Rashford and Dalot. He deserves it completely.”
Ugarte, praised as ‘unreal’ by Owen Hargreaves, will provide Manchester United with significantly improved midfield protection that has been lacking early in the season. The Uruguay international excels as a tough-tackling ball-winner and could be crucial in neutralizing the threat posed by Eberechi Eze.
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Manuel Ugarte vs. Barnsley |
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In United’s previous win against Southampton, Ten Hag employed a midfield trio consisting of Bruno Fernandes, Kobbie Mainoo, and Christian Eriksen. If Ugarte were to be brought into the starting lineup, it is most likely that Eriksen would be the one to make way, especially considering the recent performances of Fernandes and Mainoo.
Crystal Palace has faced difficulties in the initial weeks of the Premier League season, presenting a prime opportunity for United to maintain their momentum and establish a strong series of results.
Questioning the Bruno Fernandes Decision
He was substituted on late in the Barnsley match
During the latter stages of the Barnsley match, Ten Hag made the decision to replace him with Bruno Fernandes, even though the team was leading 5-0 at the time. With Alejandro Garnacho and Marcus Rashford already dominating, the need for more attacking strength was questionable.
ESPN reporter Rob Dawson labeled the substitution as ‘interesting,’ sparking debate. Although Dawson did not elaborate further, there is a suggestion that the change was unnecessary and that Fernandes could have benefited from a well-deserved rest after being heavily utilized in recent years.
All statistics provided by FotMob – accurate as of 18/09/2024
Mark Goldbridge Urges Ten Hag to Keep Manuel Ugarte in Starting XI Against Crystal Palace
Overview of Mark Goldbridge’s Opinions
Mark Goldbridge, a prominent football commentator and Manchester United fan, has voiced his strong support for Erik ten Hag to include Manuel Ugarte in the starting eleven for the upcoming match against Crystal Palace. Ugarte has garnered attention for his impressive performances, and Goldbridge believes that his skills are essential for United to secure a victory.
The Importance of Manuel Ugarte
Manuel Ugarte, the Uruguayan midfielder, has made a significant impact since joining Manchester United. His playing style, characterized by tenacity and tactical intelligence, has been highlighted by analysts and fans alike. Here are some reasons why Goldbridge insists on Ugarte’s inclusion:
- Defensive Stability: Ugarte excels at breaking up opposition plays and providing a shield for the defense.
- Distribution Skills: His ability to transition from defense to attack makes him a vital cog in United’s midfield.
- Work Rate: Ugarte’s relentless energy can help maintain pressure on Crystal Palace, exploiting any weaknesses.
Analysis of Ugarte’s Performance Metrics
To further understand Ugarte’s value, let’s look at some key performance metrics:
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Tackles per Match | 3.4 |
| Pass Completion Rate | 88% |
| Interceptions per Match | 2.9 |
| Key Passes per Match | 1.5 |
Goldbridge’s Tactical Insights
In discussing Ugarte’s role, Goldbridge emphasizes a few tactical insights that could benefit Manchester United against Crystal Palace:
1. High Pressing Game
With Ugarte in the lineup, United can implement a more aggressive pressing strategy. His ability to win the ball back quickly can disrupt Palace’s build-up play and lead to more scoring opportunities.
2. Enhanced Midfield Control
Ugarte’s presence in midfield allows for better control of possession. This is crucial against a team like Crystal Palace, which can counter-attack effectively if given space.
3. Defensive Cover
By having Ugarte in the starting XI, Ten Hag ensures that the backline has adequate support. His tracking back and defensive awareness can prevent Palace’s fast wingers from exploiting gaps in the defense.
Case Studies: Ugarte’s Impact in Previous Matches
Match Against Liverpool
In a recent encounter against Liverpool, Ugarte’s contributions were evident:
- Key Tackles: Made 5 crucial tackles, helping to thwart Liverpool’s attacks.
- Passing Accuracy: Achieved a passing accuracy of over 90%, facilitating smooth transitions.
Match Against Arsenal
Ugarte played a pivotal role in another important fixture:
- Interceptions: Recorded 4 interceptions, breaking up key plays from the Gunners.
- Run Support: Contributed to the offensive play by making 3 key passes leading to shots on goal.
Benefits of Keeping Ugarte in the Starting XI
There are several benefits to keeping Ugarte in the starting lineup for the match against Crystal Palace:
- Improved Defensive Resilience: Ugarte’s tackling and interception skills can significantly reduce the number of goals conceded.
- Better Ball Retention: His passing ability enhances the team’s ball control, reducing the chances of losing possession.
- Confidence Booster: Ugarte’s consistent performances can inspire confidence in his teammates, creating a more cohesive unit on the pitch.
Practical Tips for Ten Hag
To maximize Ugarte’s effectiveness in the match against Crystal Palace, here are some practical tips for Erik ten Hag:
- Set Clear Expectations: Clearly define Ugarte’s role, focusing on defensive duties and transition play.
- Encourage Communication: Foster open communication between Ugarte and the defensive line to ensure cohesive positioning.
- Utilize Set-Pieces: Leverage Ugarte’s heading ability during set-pieces, both defensively and offensively.
Conclusion: The Case for Ugarte
Mark Goldbridge’s strong support for Manuel Ugarte’s inclusion in the starting XI against Crystal Palace is backed by substantial evidence of his impact on the pitch. As Manchester United continues to navigate a challenging season, the tactical benefits of keeping Ugarte in the lineup cannot be underestimated. His consistent performances, combined with Goldbridge’s insights, make a compelling case for his selection in this crucial match.
