It was the perfect end to the Ruud van Nistelrooy era as Manchester United ran out comfortable 3-0 winners over Leicester City at Old Trafford on Sunday.
The win meant the Red Devils are only four points off the top four in the Premier League. The interim manager’s tenure has resulted in an unbeaten four-game run, which includes three wins.
Players have been free to express themselves in the last four games, a huge change from the Erik ten Hag era, while the former striker’s arrival also brought certain stars back to life.
One among them has been Manuel Ugarte, who was everywhere on the pitch on Sunday, winning 10 ground duels, and making 12 tackles in total, winning eight of them.
Ugarte back in form
He was ignored by the former manager, with reports stating that Erik ten Hag had preferred other players in his stead, something that was not appreciated by the owners.
Under Van Nistelrooy, the Uruguayan has got regular minutes, which has brought out the best side of his game: his combative edge.
The 23-year-old, in tandem with Casemiro, hardly allowed the Foxes to keep the ball at times, making three vital interceptions while recovering the ball seven times (stats via sofascore).
With confidence restored, the former Paris Saint-Germain star found the courage to venture forward at times, and while his passing still needs improvement, there were plenty of positive signs.
Amorim will be pleased
The defensive midfielder had 68 touches of the ball and he ended the game with a 92% passing accuracy with five passes into the final third.
The Uruguay international also made one key pass while creating one big chance. He had an attempt on goal blocked and completed 100% of his dribbles.
Ruben Amorim, who has worked with the midfielder in the past at Sporting Lisbon, will be happy with his former pupil’s return to form.
He has formed a steady partnership with Casemiro but United fans will be waiting to see Kobbie Mainoo partnering him eventually once the Amorim era kickstarts.
Feature image Michael Regan via Getty Images
Ayantan Chowdhury
Ayantan has worked for 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites but his heart was always set on writing about his favourite club. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25
