Manuel Ugarte's tenure at Manchester United has been underwhelming since his £50 million transfer from Paris Saint-Germain in the summer of 2024. After a promising start, Ugarte's difficulties on the ball have become pronounced, leading to him being frequently sidelined by interim head coach Michael Carrick in favor of teammates Casemiro and Kobbie Mainoo. Following a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Leeds United, Ugarte faced heavy criticism from pundits, including former United captains Gary Neville and Roy Keane, who questioned his quality and impact on the game. However, Carrick defended Ugarte, praising his commitment and work rate, particularly during a challenging match where the team played with ten men. With only six games remaining in the season, Ugarte's future at the club appears uncertain, as INEOS aims to enhance United's midfield options. Speculation about a potential move to Italy has emerged, as Ugarte may thrive in the slower-paced Serie A compared to the demanding Premier League.