Manuel Ugarte has disclosed that Bruno Fernandes, Lisandro Martinez, and Facundo Pellistri played key roles in persuading him to join Manchester United. The Uruguayan midfielder, who signed from Paris Saint-Germain for £42.2 million (potentially rising to £50.7 million), spoke to the trio before finalising the move.
“Before coming here I spoke a lot with Bruno and Licha (Lisandro). I also spoke a lot with Facu Pellistri,” Ugarte told the club’s media. “I’m really looking forward to it, but I also realise that this is a big responsibility and I’m ready for it.”
Ugarte cited the club’s history and the influence of his compatriots as key factors. “Well, first and foremost, it’s history because we all know what a massive club United is,” he said. “He (Pellistri) told me everything, that the atmosphere that’s generated the match day at Old Trafford is incredible.”
The 23-year-old made his debut in a 3-0 win over Southampton and impressed in a 7-0 League Cup victory against Barnsley. He is expected to compete for a starting role in Erik ten Hag’s midfield.
