Manchester United‘s Manuel Ugarte says he has only been focusing on the World Cup in recent months.
The Uruguay international arrived at Old Trafford from Paris Saint-Germain in August 2024 and 45 matches last season.
However, his game time at Manchester United drastically reduced this season, limiting to 1,005 minutes from 24 matches.
Since Michael Carrick took charge in January, the midfielder played only 155 minutes from seven matches. This includes 90 minutes in the Red Devils’ league defeat to Leeds United in April, which is his last appearance.
The restricted role didn’t stop him from making it Marcelo Bielsa’s squad for the World Cup.
Work at Manchester United with WC in mind
With the conclusion of the 2025/26 season, Manuel Ugarte made a trip to his country.
The 25-year-old arrived at the Carrasco International Airport where he met the reporters and ESPN have relayed his comments.
He didn’t hesitate to confirm it hasn’t been a productive season for him personally. As the player was aware of this, he focused on the upcoming World Cup well in advance.
“In recent months, my focus has been 100% on the World Cup. Now it’s time to get down to business and start training to face Saudi Arabia,” he said.
“This year wasn’t the best at Manchester United, but at one point I had a realisation and said: my focus is the World Cup.”
“I did everything for the World Cup: the minutes I played were with the World Cup in mind, the training sessions I did, both the intense ones and the rest sessions, were all with the World Cup in mind.”
Ugarte asked about Manchester United future
The former Sporting man has refused to discuss whether he plans to change clubs in the summer.
“I’m not thinking about what will happen next because when you finish your career, the best thing is to play in a World Cup with your country. I want to enjoy it and push myself to the limit,” Manuel Ugarte explained.
ESPN points out some of the Red Devils’ end-of season posts suggest of a farewell. When asked about it, he added: “Manchester United is one of the best clubs in the world.”
“The World Cup is going to be crucial in determining everything. I’m open to whatever comes.”
“This year wasn’t great in every sense, but I learned a lot mentally, I was surrounded by good people, and I’m trying to take the positives from it. We’ll see what happens at the World Cup. Whatever happens, I think it will be good.”
Summer exit benefits both parties
Manchester United aim to sign at least two new midfielders in the upcoming window after Casemiro’s exit.
This would make it challenging for Manuel Ugarte to enjoy regular minutes under Michael Carrick. Therefore, a summer exit can be beneficial for both parties.
Two months ago, Sport Witness covered claims from Italy of Juventus’ multiple attempts to sign him.
