Man Utd fans all making the same point about Manuel Ugarte as new signing makes debut against Southampton

Manuel Ugarte made his debut for Manchester United on Saturday as they beat Southampton 3-0 away from home.

United were in desperate need of a victory against the newly-promoted Saints, having been thrashed 3-0 by Liverpool in their last match prior to the international break.

It had looked like it might be a difficult afternoon for the Red Devils when Southampton were awarded a first-half penalty after Tyler Dibling was brought down in the area by Diogo Dalot.

But Southampton, who have scored just one goal since returning to the top flight, failed to take advantage – with Cameron Archer seeing his penalty saved by Andre Onana.

Russell Martin’s side were made to pay just minutes later when Matthijs de Ligt headed United in front with his first goal for the club.

Marcus Rashford then added a second for the visitors before the break to end his 13-match run without a goal.

United looked comfortable after the break, which allowed manager Erik ten Hag to introduce new signing Ugarte with around 15 minutes remaining.

It was his first appearance for the club since joining in a £42.2m move from Paris Saint-Germain this summer.

Southampton were reduced to 10 men minutes later when Jack Stephens was sent off for a rash challenge on Alejandro Garnacho, who then added a third for the visitors late on to seal a comfortable win.

United fans were happy with Ugarte’s first performance in English football, taking to social media to express their satisfaction with his debut.

“Ugarte winning the ball in Southamptons half as they building their attack is why he is in the team,” one fan posted on X.

“Ugarte will be an important player for us in midfield,” added another.

A third wrote: “Good start Ugarte.”

Manuel Ugarte made his United debut against Southampton (Image: Getty)

While another fan joked: “Is it too early to say Ugarte and [Kobbie] Mainoo midfield is the greatest midfield in PL history?”

Ugarte’s solid performance raises questions over the future of Casemiro, who was dropped to the bench for the match and was only brought on with three minutes remaining.

Ugarte, meanwhile, could make his full debut for United when they face Barnsley in the third round of the Carabao Cup on Tuesday night.

They then return to Premier League action against Crystal Palace the following Saturday.