95% pass accuracy, 11 defensive actions – Manchester United star puts Sir Jim Ratcliffe to shame after “outstanding” display

One Manchester United star is proving Sir Jim Ratcliffe wrong following his “outstanding” Premier League display against Manchester City on Sunday afternoon.

Manchester United pulled off a stunning 2-1 victory over Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium, with Amad Diallo’s late-game heroics earning Rúben Amorim’s side all three points in a thrilling Premier League encounter.

The match began with both teams eager to control possession, but United were dealt an early blow as Mason Mount was forced off injured within the first 15 minutes.

Read More: Rúben Amorim admits “problem” with Mason Mount following 13-minute Manchester United sub

City took the lead shortly after, with Joško Gvardiol rising to head home from Kevin de Bruyne’s deflected cross following a well-worked short corner.

United grew into the game in the second half, dominating possession but finding it difficult to carve out clear chances against City’s stubborn defence. Bruno Fernandes came close to equalizing with 10 minutes to play but couldn’t find the back of the net.

With time running out, Amad Diallo produced a moment of brilliance, winning a penalty after dazzling the City defence. Fernandes stepped up and confidently converted to level the score with just minutes remaining.

The drama didn’t end there. Lisandro Martínez delivered a pinpoint pass from deep, setting Amad through on goal. The young winger showed remarkable composure to round Ederson and fire home the winner, completing a remarkable late turnaround and securing a vital win for United.

Ugarte’s “outstanding” display

While Amad will get much of the credit for the game, a special mention must be given to Manuel Ugarte for his performance in the middle of the park.

“Manu [Ugarte] was outstanding today,” Fernandes told Sky Sports after the game. “For me today, Manu was unstoppable.”

Fernandes is not wrong. Playing the full 90 minutes, Ugarte had 55 touches, and completed 39 of his 41 attempted passes. He completed all three long balls and succeeded in his one attempted dribble.

He made 11 defensive actions, winning seven duels and one tackle, while making two interceptions and two clearances, sweeping up behind United’s attacking line when needed.

Proving Sir Jim Ratcliffe wrong

What has been particularly impressive with Ugarte is how he is slowly proving many people wrong.

When he was signed for £42 million from Paris St. Germain in the summer, he started slow with his games, failing to make much of an impact. However, since the beginning of November, he has stepped up his game.

Many reports have stated that co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe was disappointed in how former sporting director Dan Ashworth conducted himself during United’s summer window, with Ashworth in particular pushing for Ugarte’s signature.

Ashworth was then relieved of his post, with Ratcliffe not sold on Ugarte, but his “outstanding” display against Liverpool further proves that the 23-year-old will put Ratcliffe and many others to shame for their initial conclusions.

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