One Manchester United star could be set to receive a final chance to impress under Ruben Amorim in the upcoming clash against Aston Villa.
Manchester United will look to continue their strong away form when they visit Aston Villa on Sunday afternoon, in a match that could have major implications for the Premier League title race.
Ruben Amorim’s side have endured a frustrating run at Old Trafford, frequently throwing away leads — most recently in Monday night’s breathless 4–4 draw with Bournemouth, where they allowed their opponents back into the contest on three occasions. Away from home, however, United have been far more reliable.
The Reds have not lost on the road since late September, picking up eye-catching wins against Liverpool and Crystal Palace, as well as draws with Nottingham Forest and Tottenham.
Villa Park now presents their toughest test yet. Unai Emery’s in-form side have won nine straight league games and trail leaders Arsenal by just three points. With United’s inconsistency well documented, Villa will see this fixture as another opportunity to capitalise on their formidable home advantage.
Ugarte could be handed rare chance vs Aston Villa
United’s trip to Villa Park is not only made difficult by the opponent, but also the absences within Amorim’s squad.
The Reds will be without Amad, Bryan Mbeumo and Noussair Mazraoui due to AFCON, and Casemiro also misses out through a one-game suspension.
The Brazilian has been a regular starter for United this term, and Amorim needs to figure out the best way to replace him. Many fans would want Kobbie Mainoo to start alongside Bruno Fernandes.
But it is also possible that Manuel Ugarte starts the game. Amorim has said that he is a more natural replacement for Casemiro, although he has not started a game since the defeat to Brentford.
Ugarte has been extremely poor in his cameos this season, and there have been rumours that United could look to offload him in the upcoming transfer window. Amorim has admitted recently that the midfielder is ‘struggling’ in games and in training.
Should Amorim decide to go with the ex-Sporting star, there will be pressure to deliver, and there will continue to be questions over his future if he doesn’t.
Ugarte may have the most uncertain future at United
United’s midfield depth is not only weak, but there seems to be uncertainty over every single senior option’s future at the club.
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Ugarte has not convinced anyone, Mainoo is unhappy about his game-time under Amorim, Casemiro’s contract is expiring when the season ends and Fernandes will always have the interest from Saudi Arabia.
All four players are not going to be sold but it is a clear indicator that United need to strengthen in that position.
Fortunately, it appears that the Reds are preparing for that and it would not be surprising to see two or three midfield additions at Old Trafford over the next year.
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