‘Great coach’ – Manchester United star recalls working with Ruben Amorim

Ruben Amorim opted to relieve Ruud van Nistelrooy of his duties last week.
(Photo courtesy of Manchester United)

Manuel Ugarte has recalled his successful spell at Sporting CP with Ruben Amorim. The pair will work together again at Manchester United.

The Uruguay midfielder did not hit the ground running after joining United in the summer, but his performances improved in November under caretaker manager Ruud van Nistelrooy.

However, Van Nistelrooy has since departed the club, with Amorim succeeding Erik ten Hag as head coach. It is understood that the new head coach made Van Nistelrooy aware that he wouldn’t be part of his coaching staff last week.

Ugarte’s best performance for United arguably came in the 3-0 win over Leicester City before the international break. He earned plenty of plaudits and will hope he can continue that form when he returns from representing Uruguay.

Scoring his first international goal last week, Ugarte’s winner against Colombia should give him an extra spring in his step when he returns to the club for training.

Ugarte’s return will also mark a reunion with Amorim after the pair enjoyed success in Lisbon.

Ruben Amorim and Manuel Ugarte reunion

Manuel Ugarte excited to work with Ruben Amorim again
(Photo by Charlotte Tattersall/Getty Images)

Speaking to in-house club media (via ManUtd.com), Ugarte revealed how quickly his move to Sporting happened.

“It was so fast,” Ugarte said.

“I arrived in January [to sign for Famalicao] and, in June, I was leaving for Sporting. It’s one of the biggest clubs in Portugal and I was very proud. I enjoyed my time at Famalicao and also at Sporting, where I spent almost three years. Lisbon is amazing –  the city, the people, the club, my team-mates. Everything.

“It is a warm place that treats you well and you make lots of friends. That helped me be successful. I felt comfortable. We had a great coach [Ruben Amorim] who helped me a lot, too.”

Interestingly, Ugarte has played more games under Amorim (85) than any other manager in his young career.

Ugarte also spoke about how proud he is to represent a club that is respected in his homeland and across the world.

“We all know what it means to be United, with the history we have.

“The history, the fans, the mystique. I understand this responsibility and that starts with the day-to-day, being 100 per cent focused on the football and ready to win trophies.

“United matches are always on in Uruguay so we all know the history they have. When you come here, and you are with people who are part of the history, for example, [Darren] Fletcher — they transmit what it means to be United.”

More Stories Manchester United Manuel Ugarte Ruben Amorim