“Now that we have gotten Manual Ugarte, we are now going for a player that’s going to help Marcus Rashford improve tremendously. He’s going to help Rashford to score more goals by giving him more goal-creating passes.” – This is according to Dan Ashworth as he claims that following Ugarte, Manchester United are in negotiations for a £200k-per-week star who could help get Rashford back to his best.
As the new Premier League season kicks off, Manchester United’s ongoing challenges were painfully evident this weekend, as Erik ten Hag’s team struggled to overcome last season’s difficulties. A last-minute goal at the Amex Stadium by Joao Pedro handed United a 2-1 defeat, leaving fans with a familiar feeling of disappointment. Unmarked and given too much space, Pedro’s 95th-minute strike secured Brighton & Hove Albion’s victory, marking the third consecutive season in which United has faced an early loss to the Seagulls. With a daunting clash against Liverpool looming, United’s frailties are once again in the spotlight.
This loss has ignited serious concerns among Manchester United supporters and analysts. Brighton appears to have become a nemesis for Ten Hag, but it’s the manner of the defeat that has stoked fears of a recurring problem for the Red Devils. Last season’s defensive lapses, which cost United valuable points, seem to have resurfaced. The team’s inability to maintain focus in the closing moments suggests that these issues might not be a one-time occurrence, but rather a persistent problem.
A key worry is the ongoing struggles of Marcus Rashford, once seen as United’s next big star. Rashford’s decline in form has been glaring, especially considering he only managed to score eight goals last season, a significant drop from his 30-goal tally two seasons prior. His sharp decline isn’t just a personal setback; it also diminishes United’s attacking strength. Rashford thrived in the 2022/23 season when left-back Luke Shaw was consistently available, underscoring how much he relies on solid support from the flanks. With Shaw and Tyrell Malacia sidelined due to injuries, Rashford has found himself isolated and less effective.
To combat these issues, Manchester United is actively seeking to strengthen their squad, particularly in the left-back and midfield positions. The imminent signing of Paris Saint-Germain’s midfielder Manuel Ugarte underscores United’s intent to add grit and creativity to their midfield. Ugarte, known for his defensive acumen and ball distribution, could bring much-needed balance to United’s midfield, offering better protection for the defense and aiding in attack creation.
In addition to Ugarte, there is strong speculation that United is pursuing Chelsea’s Ben Chilwell. Bringing Chilwell on board could be crucial for United’s ambitions this season. Chilwell’s offensive instincts, overlapping runs, and ability to contribute goals would offer Rashford the support that has been sorely missing. His presence could not only bolster the defense but also enhance United’s attack, potentially reigniting Rashford’s form. A steady left-back like Chilwell could replicate the successful dynamic Rashford enjoyed with Shaw during the 2022/23 season.
The potential signing of Chilwell might also trigger interesting moves in the transfer market. Reports suggest that United and Chelsea are considering a swap deal involving Jadon Sancho. Sancho, who has yet to make a significant impact at Old Trafford since his big-money move, could find new opportunities at Stamford Bridge, while Chilwell could provide the stability and support that Rashford and the rest of the United attack have been lacking.
Ultimately, Manchester United’s early-season defeat serves as a wake-up call, underscoring the urgent need for reinforcements and tactical adjustments. With the transfer window still open, United’s moves in the market will be critical in determining whether they can avoid a repeat of last season’s struggles and mount a serious challenge for the Premier League title.
