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Former Manchester United star Owen Hargreaves has backed new signing Manuel Ugarte to succeed at the club and instantly become a fan favourite.
United finally unveiled Ugarte on transfer deadline day, after weeks of trying to pry him from Paris-Saint Germain’s hands.
It’s believed that the two clubs reached an agreement for the Uruguayan at around the £50.7 million mark, including add-ons.
He has already made four appearances across all competitions for the Red Devils.
Ugarte played the full 90 minutes on Wednesday night as United were held to a disappointing 1-1 draw by FC Twente in their Europa League opener.
He produced a decent performance, but there were some aspects of his game that were lacking.
Speaking on TNT Sports (via Metro), Hargreaves tipped Ugarte to come up with the goods at Old Trafford, as he likened him to some of the club’s greatest-ever players.
Hargreaves, who won the Champions League with United in 2008, said, “This kid will deliver because he’s a player. He’s a one-man press, tackle. He turns the ball over as good as anyone in European football and I think United fans are going to love him.”
“They’ve seen these players over the years, the Bryan Robsons, the Paul Inces, the Paul Scholes, Michael Carricks. Ugarte gives you that, he gives you balance.”
“He’s probably not the best attacking player but in terms of protection in front of the back four, getting the ball back, getting the ball to guys who are going to win you the game.”
“He’s just what Manchester United need. I love the fact that they signed a kid like him. He’s got a heart of a lion and these fans have seen those players and they love that type of player. I think he’s going to be perfect for United.”
Hargreaves opined that Ugarte is a good midfield partner for young Kobbie Mainoo and the duo will bring some much-needed balance in the middle of the park.
Reacting to his individual display vs. Twente, Ugarte admitted that he didn’t have a “great match” but promised to keep working in a bid to get better.
The 23-year-old and his teammates return to action this weekend when they meet Tottenham Hotspur in a must-win Premier League clash.
Feature image Michael Regan via Getty Images
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