Manchester United midfielder Manuel Ugarte has made an alarming revelation, admitting that he and his teammates are not able to compete physically against their Premier League opponents, hence why they’re performing much better in the Europa League.
United have endured a wretched Premier League season that currently has them in 14th place with just a mere 39 points and four games left to play.
The Red Devils have suffered 15 top-flight defeats but it has been a totally different story in the Europa League, where United remain unbeaten – the only team in Europe with such a record this term.
Ahead of United’s clash with Athletic Club at Estadio de San Mamés in the first leg of their semi-final tie, Ugarte was asked why they’re faring far much better in Europe than domestically.
He answered, “The main difference is the physical part, I think. We have felt better playing in the Europa League.”
“Then, as the coach said, we had games in the Premier League where we had opportunities and we didn’t score. We lost points in the Premier League because of small details.”
“We need to be focused on these kind of details. In the Europa League, we are very, very much focused. That is how we need to play in the Premier League, too.”
On the importance of winning the Europa League, Ugarte explained, “The history of United is written with titles. That is why we are focused very much on tomorrow to be able to play in the Champions League next season. All together, we are going to try and win.”
The Uruguayan opened up on his relationship with fellow South American Casemiro.
Ugarte remarked, “I am learning a lot with Casemiro. I have a very good relationship with Case and I try to copy as much as I can. All the good things that he has as a player, both inside and outside the pitch, too.”
“This is what makes him a winner. Up until now, I keep learning and I am very happy.”
Athletic vs. United kicks off at 20:00 BST.
Featured image Matt McNulty via Getty Images
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Derick Kinoti
Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the game extensively for many years. He is a keen analyst with expertise in SEO and journalism standards. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
