88% pass accuracy, 5 duels won – Erik ten Hag “happy” with 6.5/10 Man United star’s performance

Erik ten Hag has delivered his verdict on Manuel Ugarte’s Manchester United performance as the club drew 1-1 with Fenerbahce on Thursday evening.

Manchester United were held to a third consecutive Europa League draw, finishing 1-1 against Fenerbahce.

Christian Eriksen opened the scoring with a superb shot from the edge of the box, netting his fourth goal of the season and putting Erik ten Hag‘s in control by half-time.

Read More: Jose Mourinho reveals crucial Man United advice he received from Sofyan Amrabat before Fenerbahce clash

But Fenerbahce struck back soon after the break, as Youssef En-Nesyri powered past Victor Lindelöf to head in a well-placed cross from Allan Saint-Maximin.

Both teams sought a late winner with several substitutions, but neither could find the finishing touch, leaving them to share the points in a heated clash in Istanbul.

Ten Hag’s Ugarte verdict

Once it was announced that Manuel Ugarte would be starting, many fans pointed out that he would play against Fred and Sofyan Amrabat, who both used to occupy his position as the No. 6 for Manchester United.

Ten Hag explained to reporters after the tie that he believes the 23-year-old, who earned a 6.5/10 on our player ratings, is starting to “step up” in a United shirt following his 2024 summer move from Paris St. Germain.

“Yes, I think so. He has to come into the team and it costs time, that six role is very important for every team, such a key position and he has to learn how we play and you only learn by playing,” Ten Hag said.

“You see, he takes the lessons well, he’s stepping up, and I was happy with his performance today.”

A catalytic performance

Ugarte’s start to life at United has been rocky. The player has been criticised for a string of average or sub-par performances.

However, against Fenerbahce, he was much better. His tackle on Fred started the move for Eriksen’s goal, and minutes later, he made a goal-saving block that received plaudits from across the world.

Ugarte was signed for £42 million, which is no small fee. Although some have felt that this was a waste of money, his display against Fenerbahce proves that given time, he will be able to become the replacement for Casemiro that many are hoping for.

Hopefully, his performance against Fenerbahce can catalyse other positive games in a United shirt.

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