Having waited 11 months to win consecutive Premier League matches as Manchester United head coach, Ruben Amorim now has won three on the bounce.
As important as the win at Anfield was last week, it was just as important that Manchester United beat Brighton at Old Trafford on Saturday evening to build on their momentum.
Bryan Mbeumo scored twice against the Seagulls, while fellow new signing Matheus Cunha scooped the Player of the Match award for his scintillating display.
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United’s two new attacking arrivals have deservedly scooped the headlines following the 4-2 victory, but there are several performers who are going under the radar after a brilliant display.
For example, Senne Lammens was excellent again in goal, while Matthijs de Ligt continued his excellent form in the back three. Amorim will also be pleased by the performance of his substitutes.
Manuel Ugarte playing for Manchester United at Old Trafford
Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images
14-touch Man United star executed Amorim’s plan perfectly
It has rarely been the case for Amorim that United have been in complete control of a Premier League match under his tenure, but the Red Devils took a commanding 3-0 lead against Brighton.
That allowed Amorim to turn to his bench and make changes, but Brighton’s attempted comeback did cause some nerves.
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In the 81st minute – after Brighton’s first goal – Amorim chose to bring on Manuel Ugarte in place of Cunha to steady up the midfield. The partnership of Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo was proving to be too exposed.
In his nine-minute cameo, Ugarte did exactly what Amorim needed. The Uruguay international only took 14 touches of the ball, but it was his out-of-possession work that was vital.
Ugarte won four duels, made one tackle, completed one interception and recovered the ball twice in his short but impactful cameo.
Manuel Ugarte vs Brighton Statistics
Minutes played 9
Touches 14
Passes completed 78% (7/9)
Duels won 80% (4/5)
Tackles won 50% (1/2)
Interceptions 1
Ball recoveries 2
Fouls won 1
Manuel Ugarte has embraced new role at Man United
It is no secret that United have been scouring the market for midfield reinforcements since the summer, and that will certainly continue into 2026.
Amorim has preferred to start Fernandes and Casemiro this season, but both players face uncertain futures at Old Trafford.
Ugarte has only started two Premier League matches this season, but he still has a vital role when Amorim calls upon him.
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The 24-year-old is one of the best ball-winners in United’s squad, so Amorim has often turned to him to see out games this season.
Against Sunderland, Liverpool and now Brighton, Ugarte has been brought on late to help United manage their lead and halt any comeback. It might not be the most glamorous role in Amorim’s squad, but Ugarte is proving himself to be very useful in those situations.