“Erik ten Hag should have sign him instead. Manuel Ugarte is a bad business. He is not the type of player that will help Manchester United. We need player like Rodri and this boy can do it for us”-Paul Scholes names the player Manchester United should have signed who plays like Rodri instead of Manuel Ugarte
Manchester United are reportedly on the verge of securing a significant transfer deal to acquire Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) midfielder Manuel Ugarte, a move aimed at strengthening their central midfield. The club is eager to add depth to this area of the squad as they look to build on a positive start to their Premier League campaign. However, Manchester United legend Paul Scholes has voiced his opinion, suggesting that the club should have considered pursuing a different player instead.
United began their Premier League season with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Fulham, with the winning goal coming late in the match from substitute Joshua Zirkzee. Zirkzee, who was one of four new signings for United this summer, joined the club from Bologna for a reported fee of £36.5 million. Alongside him, the club also brought in defender Leny Yoro from Lille for over £50 million. Unfortunately, Yoro is currently sidelined due to an injury. Additionally, Bayern Munich’s defensive duo, Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui, made their debuts in the match against Fulham, showcasing United’s commitment to bolstering their squad.
With the summer transfer window set to close on August 30, Manchester United is still actively pursuing new signings. The club has identified the need for a solid No. 6 in their midfield, and Manuel Ugarte has emerged as a prime candidate for this role. Discussions are reportedly underway regarding a potential loan deal for Ugarte this season, with an obligation to buy the player next summer. Ugarte, at just 23 years old, has already made a significant impact at PSG, having made 37 appearances for the French club last season following his move from Sporting Lisbon. His profile aligns with United’s strategy of recruiting young, talented players who can contribute immediately and grow with the team.
Despite the promising prospect of Ugarte’s arrival, Paul Scholes, a revered figure in Manchester United’s history, has expressed his opinion that the club might have been better served by targeting a different type of player. Scholes specifically mentioned former Manchester City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan as an ideal candidate for the role United is looking to fill. Gundogan, who recently returned to Manchester City after a brief stint with Barcelona, is known for his ability to control the pace of the game and provide a calming influence in midfield—qualities that Scholes believes United could greatly benefit from.
In addition to Gundogan, Scholes also highlighted Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi as another potential option that United should have considered. Zubimendi, a talented Spanish midfielder, had previously turned down a move to Liverpool earlier this summer, indicating his desire to remain in Spain. Scholes, speaking on *The Overlap*, emphasized the importance of having a midfielder who can dictate the tempo of the game and offer stability in the middle of the park—something he feels is crucial for Manchester United as they aim to compete at the highest level.
Scholes said, “I think that’s the type of player they need – a Zubimendi or – I’m gonna say – Gundogan.” His comments underscore the belief that United’s midfield requires a player with the experience and composure to control matches, especially in high-pressure situations.
As Manchester United continues to navigate the transfer market, it remains to be seen whether they will heed Scholes’ advice or proceed with their pursuit of Ugarte. Nonetheless, the ongoing discussions and potential signings reflect the club’s determination to strengthen their squad and challenge for top honors this season.