Manuel Ugarte concerns raised as scale of Manchester United midfield problems laid bare

Concerns are already being raised over new Manchester United signing Manuel Ugarte .

The midfielder finally completed a £51million move from Paris Saint-Germain on Deadline Day, after weeks of negoitations between the two clubs, but was unable to make his debut against Liverpool on Sunday.

Ugarte will now be tasked with improving a midfield alongside young United star Kobbie Mainoo, replacing an ageing Casemiro who was at fault for two of the three Liverpool goals in a chastening defeat at Old Trafford.

The Uruguayan, therefore, arrives with plenty of expectation on his shoulders despite a disappointing season with PSG which saw him lose his spot amid reported concerns over a perceived weakness in possession.

Former United star Paul Scholes , speaking after the 3-0 loss, noted the task at hand for Ugarte and has already expressed concerns over a player handed such responsibilities.

"He’s going to have to be some player," he said. "I think he will play the position well, he’s still 23, he’s had a few clubs which slightly concerns you.

"But he does play the position well. I don’t think he’ll vacate that area as much as we’ve seen, a bit more discipline, he’ll plug the gaps, I hope, that’s going to be his role.

"I don’t think he’s going to be the greatest of playmakers – I don’t think you’re looking at a Toni Kroos.

"[Ten Hag] needs discipline in there, he’s obviously seen that already. Casemiro, okay, not great legs. I don’t think Mainoo as an athlete is that great. He relies more on his manipulation of the ball and his quality on the ball.

"Ugarte has got to be everything. He’s going to have to be some player to make this team better, it’s a bit job on his hands and I just can’t see it."

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