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Erik ten Hag’s summer signings at Manchester United haven’t made the expected impact, with some struggling to adapt to the team. Out of the five new players brought in, only one—Leny Yoro—started the recent match against Aston Villa. Despite getting some playing time in the second half, Yoro has yet to score in his nine appearances, showing that he’s still adjusting to the squad.

One of the most significant signings of the summer was Manuel Ugarte, acquired on deadline day for £42 million. Ugarte was brought in to strengthen United’s midfield, particularly as a solution to issues surrounding Casemiro’s form and fitness. Initially, there was optimism that Ugarte could fill this gap effectively, but that confidence has dwindled in recent matches.

After a poor showing in United’s 3-0 loss to Tottenham, Ugarte has found himself absent from the squad in the following two matches, which raised eyebrows among fans and pundits alike. Initially, many thought that Ugarte had been rested for the Europa League game against Porto, but when he was left out again in the league match against Aston Villa, it signaled a potential lack of faith from Erik ten Hag in Ugarte’s current form. Instead, Christian Eriksen started in midfield alongside Kobbie Mainoo, while Casemiro, the man Ugarte was supposed to replace, came off the bench.

It seems that Ten Hag may have, at least for now, conceded that Ugarte isn’t ready for the role he envisioned. However, it’s still early days for the 23-year-old, and he has time to prove himself, especially as he’s only played in four Premier League games so far. His first minutes this season came during Uruguay’s international fixtures, as Ugarte hadn’t featured for Paris Saint-Germain before moving to Manchester United. He spent his initial appearances coming off the bench as he regained his fitness.

Starting in the Tottenham game but then being excluded from the squad in subsequent matches feels like a step backward for Ugarte, particularly since there are no reports of injury keeping him out. What was even more surprising was his absence from late-game substitutions, especially during matches where United could have benefited from his defensive capabilities. Against Porto, for example, United might have shored up their midfield with Ugarte, and in the match against Villa, a second defensive midfielder could have helped secure a crucial point. Yet, Ugarte remained unused in both cases, which added to the growing concern about his role in the squad.

Despite these struggles, Ugarte has been called up for Uruguay’s World Cup qualifiers, which should provide him with valuable playing time. His next opportunity to shine for Manchester United could come in their upcoming home match against Brentford. This match, taking place at Old Trafford, seems like an ideal chance for Ugarte to regain his confidence and form. Brentford hasn’t beaten United at home since 1937, so this game could be a favorable setting for Ugarte to show what he can bring to the team. However, if he remains on the sidelines or gets limited minutes, questions may start to mount about why United signed him in the first place, and whether Ten Hag has misjudged his suitability for the team.

At the same time, other summer signings are also under the spotlight. Matthijs De Ligt, who got his chance against Aston Villa only due to an injury to Harry Maguire, hasn’t had the smoothest start to his Manchester United career either. Fans are hoping he can improve and live up to his potential as the season progresses. Another new arrival, Noussair Mazraoui, was the only summer signing to start the Villa game, though this was largely due to an injury crisis in United’s full-back positions. With Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia both sidelined, Diogo Dalot has been filling in at left-back, though he’s expected to return to his usual right-back role once one of the injured players returns.

Up front, Joshua Zirkzee, who was expected to be a backup striker, has seen limited action so far. The plan was for him to step in until Rasmus Hojlund recovered from injury, but with Hojlund now getting closer to full fitness, Zirkzee’s opportunities may remain limited unless injuries strike again or tactical needs change.

Overall, Manchester United’s summer signings haven’t made the immediate impact fans hoped for. Erik ten Hag is under pressure to integrate these new players more effectively, as the team’s recent performances have been underwhelming. While it’s still early in the season, the struggles of key acquisitions like Ugarte and De Ligt could become a talking point if United’s form doesn’t improve soon.