The atmosphere at Manchester United reportedly fractured at the season’s end, culminating in a tense confrontation between manager Rúben Amorim and midfielder Manuel Ugarte. The incident, revealed recently, unfolded during a team meeting at the Carrington training ground, a mere 24 hours before a crucial Premier League match against Aston Villa.
The timing was particularly jarring, coming just days after the agonizing Europa League final defeat to Tottenham Hotspur in Bilbao. Amorim, in front of the entire squad, reportedly singled out Ugarte, delivering a scathing critique that left several players stunned.
The core of Amorim’s frustration? He accused Ugarte of becoming “too comfortable” after joining the club. This marked a dramatic shift in their relationship, considering Amorim had previously championed Ugarte during their successful time together at Sporting CP.
Expectations were high when United secured Ugarte’s signature, with many believing Amorim would revitalize a player instrumental in Sporting’s title win in 2021-22. Instead, Ugarte’s United career has stalled, limited to just three starts across all competitions.
One of those starts came in a particularly embarrassing Carabao Cup loss to Grimsby Town, further highlighting his struggles. Despite possessing tactical intelligence and strong ball-winning skills, Ugarte has found it difficult to adapt to the relentless pace and physicality of the Premier League.
Sources suggest Amorim’s discontent extends beyond on-field performances, focusing on a perceived decline in Ugarte’s intensity during training sessions. Following the Europa League disappointment, Amorim challenged the entire squad to elevate their professional standards, using Ugarte as a cautionary example.
Amorim’s approach is known for its uncompromising nature, a trait that garnered both admiration and criticism during his tenure at Sporting. He demands unwavering energy, strict discipline, and absolute focus from every player.
However, this public rebuke of Ugarte hints at deeper tensions brewing within the squad as Amorim attempts to reshape the team in his vision. Ugarte, for his part, is reportedly determined to fight for his place, but a significant change in both performance and attitude will be required to regain Amorim’s favor.
The situation underscores the high stakes and demanding environment Amorim is establishing at Manchester United, where complacency appears to be met with swift and direct action.
