Could Manchester United's Ruben Amorim be about to pull off one of the most unexpected moves of the season? Imagine starting a player who has lost every single game he’s started this season in a high-stakes clash against Liverpool. Yes, you heard that right. Reports suggest that Amorim is considering bringing Manuel Ugarte back into the starting lineup for Sunday’s showdown at Anfield, despite the Uruguayan’s less-than-stellar record this term. But here’s where it gets controversial: is this a desperate gamble or a calculated risk? Let’s break it down.
Ugarte has been warming the bench for much of the season, overshadowed by the likes of Casemiro and captain Bruno Fernandes. His only starts this season ended in defeats to Brentford, Grimsby Town, and a humiliating 3-0 loss to Manchester City. Yet, with Casemiro and Fernandes returning from international duty and potentially fatigued, Amorim might see this as the perfect opportunity to shake things up. And this is the part most people miss: Ugarte’s absence from Uruguay’s recent friendlies means he’s had extra training time with Amorim, potentially giving him an edge in fitness and tactical understanding.
But let’s not forget the elephant in the room: Ugarte himself admitted his season hasn’t gone as planned. In an interview with El Observador, he candidly stated, ‘We haven’t started the season very well… My level wasn’t the best either.’ Yet, he remains determined, emphasizing his strong relationship with Amorim and his eagerness to prove himself. Could this be the turning point he’s been waiting for?
Amorim, for his part, has acknowledged the challenges Ugarte faces, particularly in adapting to a new team and country. ‘He needs more confidence, and it’s also my job,’ Amorim explained during pre-season. He drew parallels with Bruno Fernandes, highlighting how confidence can ripple through the entire team. But is confidence enough to justify starting Ugarte against a formidable Liverpool side?
Here’s a thought-provoking question for you: Is Ruben Amorim making a bold tactical move or setting Ugarte up for another potential failure? Share your thoughts in the comments below. Whether you agree or disagree, one thing’s for sure—this match is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing fixtures of the season. Stay tuned, because if Ugarte does start, it could either be a masterstroke or a risky misstep that sparks even more debate.
