Carrick has revitalised this under-fire United star, he wants to save his Old Trafford career – report

Michael Carrick opted for a midfield pairing of Casemiro and Kobbie Mainoo for Manchester United’s clash against their noisy neighbours, Manchester City, last week. This was despite Mainoo’s rustiness and the Brazilian‘s recent poor form. Interim boss Darren Fletcher had picked Manuel Ugarte, who had shown signs of improvement. However, the Uruguayan found himself back on the bench, amid swirling rumours of a potential exit, with Galatasaray, Ajax, and OGC Nice among his suitors. However, The Peoples Person has already relayed that the caretaker head coach has no intention of letting the Uruguay international leave in January. Manuel Ugarte wants to stay and fight for his place That has pleased the former Paris Saint-Germain star, who is also desperate to stay and fight for his Old Trafford future. According to Teamtalk, the defensive midfielder is delighted to work with Carrick, and believes he can improve by working under the legendary midfielder. As things stand, a move for Ruben Neves or Ruben Loftus-Cheek seems unlikely, further buoying the 24-year-old’s confidence. “Manchester United star Manuel Ugarte is ready to dig in and fight for his Old Trafford future, we understand, despite sources confirming the Red Devils have altered their strategy and are now assessing the market to sign a midfielder on loan this month. Carrick’s arrival has revitalised Ugarte “Sources indicate the Uruguay international has been buoyed by a strong first week under new boss Michael Carrick. Ugarte is understood to have been revitalised by Carrick’s arrival, with the new manager’s calm approach and midfield expertise already making a strong impression. “That renewed confidence comes amid outside interest, with both Galatasaray and Ajax seeing approaches knocked back, with United insisting they don’t want to let him leave. “United’s stance has not gone unnoticed by Ugarte, who views the rejected bids as a clear sign that the club still value him highly.” It is unlikely that Manuel Ugarte will start against Arsenal, but when he does, he must grab his chance as INEOS are still not fully convinced. If not now, a summer exit looms large for the South American ace, who has failed to cement a starting position under three different coaches now. Feature image Michael Regan via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Ayantan Chowdhury After failing to become a professional footballer, Ayantan switched to the next best thing: writing about the greatest football club in the world. He has extensive sports journalism experience, having worked for over 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25