Dutch football legend Marco van Basten has harshly criticized Manchester United’s decision to sign a player he deems “idiotic” in a recent critique of Ruben Amorim.
Manuel Ugarte was one of Manchester United’s major signings this summer, but he is already under scrutiny as Erik ten Hag’s recruitment decisions and spending habits continue to raise concerns.
Following United’s loss to Tottenham, Marco van Basten openly criticized Ugarte’s performance. The Uruguayan midfielder, brought in from PSG to strengthen the team’s core, struggled to contain Spurs’ dominance at Old Trafford. Despite spending just one season in Paris, his arrival at United came with high expectations.
Van Basten didn’t hold back in questioning Ten Hag’s choices in the transfer market, highlighting what he sees as a pattern of questionable signings. He went as far as to label the club’s transfer spending under the Dutch manager as “idiotic,” with Ugarte becoming the latest player under scrutiny. Speaking on Ziggo Sport, he expressed disbelief over the €50 million (£42.3m) spent on Ugarte, questioning how the midfielder warranted such an investment.
Interestingly, Ugarte had been on Chelsea’s radar the previous year, with his tackling ability seen as a key asset. However, former Premier League player Robbie Earle took a more sympathetic stance, suggesting that the lack of a clear tactical identity at United has made it difficult for the midfielder to settle in. He pointed out that Ugarte arrived as a key signing, expected to partner with Kobbie Mainoo, but instead found himself in a disorganized team struggling to find its rhythm.
Van Basten further criticized United’s current squad, emphasizing that the team lacks top-quality players. He questioned whether any standout figures truly exist within the squad, singling out Marcus Rashford’s poor form and dismissing Casemiro as past his prime. While he acknowledged Bruno Fernandes as a good player and Andre Onana as a reliable goalkeeper, he suggested that the rest of the squad lacks leadership, noting that even promising talents like Alejandro Garnacho are yet to emerge as dominant figures.
