Manchester United star Manuel Ugarte has sent a subtle dig against Chelsea following their shock Club World Cup defeat. The Blues, who are taking part in FIFA's new-look competition in the United States, lost 3-1 to Brazlian side Flamengo on Friday.
Enzo Maresca's side had led proceedings initially through Pedro Neto's first-half strike, but goals from Bruno Henrique and Danilo soon turned the game on its head. Things turned from bad to worse as striker Nicolas Jackson was shown a straight red card just four minutes after replacing new boy Liam Delap.
Flamengo consolidated their lead once more through Wallace Yan on the 83rd minute as Filipe Luis ran out winners over his former side. The result leaves Chelsea needing a win in their final group game against ES Tunis to guarantee qualification for the knockout stages.
Ugarte is currently on holiday after completing international duty with Uruguay. He has shown off his adventures in a wide array of snaps, but one in particular could leave Blues fans upset.
The Red Devils midfielder can be seen sporting a Flamengo shirt on the beach accompanied by friends. It remains unclear exactly when the picture was taken, but it was posted in the early hours of Saturday morning, so he may well have been supporting the South American outfit in the Club World Cup despite having no ties with the club.
It's been a rollercoaster year or so for the 24-year-old, who played 42 times across all competitions last season, scoring twice and notching six assists. He helped United reach the Europa League final which saw them defeated by Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur.
Chelsea will not have to wait a long time to renew acquaintances with Ugarte when they travel to play Man United in the English top flight next season on September 20. The reverse fixture is scheduled at Stamford Bridge on April 18, 2026.
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Chelsea flag prior the UEFA Champions League Quarter Final Leg One match between Chelsea FC and Real Madrid at Stamford Bridge. (Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
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