Just four weeks, and three games, into the season, Manchester United and Erik ten Hag already find themselves in a must-win situation ahead of a trip to Southampton on Saturday.
It is one that requires the immediate introduction of new signing Manuel Ugarte to the midfield.
After coming perilously close to losing his job in the summer, Ten Hag needed to get off to a good start. He has not, with two losses from the opening three games feeling like a continuation of last season and not the promise of progress a new contract should bring.
A late defeat at Brighton was one thing, but a harrowing 3-0 loss at home to Liverpool is another, particularly due to the manner in which United performed.
Ten Hag’s much-criticised system was ruthlessly exposed by Arne Slot, both during the 90 minutes and in a post-match interview. Casemiro was the obvious fall guy, giving the ball away for both of the Reds’ opening two goals.
The Brazilian was subbed off at half-time and replaced by Toby Collyer, who made his Premier League debut in perhaps the worst possible environment.
Neither should start at St. Mary’s Stadium for very different reasons—the veteran Brazilian needs a spell out of the side while the youngster is too raw to just throw in, especially with the system issues, and alongside another kid in Kobbie Mainoo.
Step forward Ugarte, who seems like the best possible plaster to place over the bullet wound that is Ten Hag’s current tactical approach.
Ugarte appears to have a Fernandes-like level of fitness, missing just three games in his young career due to injury
The Uruguayan missed much of pre-season following the Copa America but did play 169 minutes for his country during the international break. He also appears to have a Bruno Fernandes-like level of fitness, missing just three games in his young career due to injury.
No Premier League game is easy—especially for this manager—but a trip to a newly promoted side with just one goal and zero points so far is a more favourable place to give a new signing a runout.
Ten Hag said on Thursday: "Manuel Ugarte, you will have seen he played for Uruguay, he returned this afternoon—he was the only player who returned today, the rest yesterday—so he is available for this game."
United have limited scope to make mass changes to their side, with several players out injured, but something has to be done.
The last time United visited the south coast, Ten Hag was in the fourth league game of his first season, with one win and three points from his first three fixtures, and directly after a home win against Liverpool. They won 1-0, with Fernandes scoring the only goal. It was also the Saturday early kick-off.
It is a near-identical situation this weekend, albeit with the Liverpool result a complete and comprehensive reverse. Most United fans would probably bite your hand off for a similar, narrow win.
Ten Hag talked of it possibly taking “months” for Ugarte to get up to speed, but the Dutchman must be aware he doesn’t have that type of time to waste. Needs must, and Ugarte must start right away.
