Manuel Ugarte, one of Manchester United’s key signings this summer, is already facing scrutiny as Erik ten Hag’s transfer strategy comes under increasing criticism.
The Uruguayan midfielder, who was brought in for €50 million (£42.3m) from Paris Saint-Germain to bolster United’s midfield, struggled to make an impact in the team’s recent loss to Tottenham at Old Trafford.
Marco van Basten, a legendary Dutch football figure, did not hold back in his assessment of Ugarte and Ten Hag’s recruitment approach. Speaking on Ziggo Sport, Van Basten called United’s spending under Ten Hag “idiotic,” questioning the logic behind investing so heavily in players like Ugarte.
“I saw Ugarte, a €50 million signing, walking around at Manchester United. How is he even there? It’s absurd how much Ten Hag has spent on players who aren’t good enough,” Van Basten remarked.
Ugarte arrived with high expectations due to his impressive tackling statistics from his brief time at PSG, and was also a target for Chelsea. However, his inability to help United control the midfield against Tottenham highlighted ongoing problems with the team’s cohesion and tactics.
Robbie Earle, a former Premier League player, offered a more sympathetic take, suggesting that Ugarte’s struggles are more a reflection of the team’s overall disarray.
Speaking on NBC, Earle said, “I felt sorry for Ugarte. He came in as a promising midfielder, likely to partner with Kobbie Mainoo, but instead finds himself in a team with no clear identity or direction. It’s hard to understand what they’re trying to do.”
Van Basten also criticized the overall quality of United’s squad, arguing that the team lacks true leaders. “Can you name a world-class player at Manchester United? Rashford is out of form.
Bruno Fernandes is good, and Onana is a solid goalkeeper, but that’s about it. Casemiro’s best years are behind him, and Garnacho is decent, but there’s no one who really steps up to lead,” he said.
The criticism of Ugarte and Ten Hag comes as United have had a poor start to the season, earning only seven points from their first six matches.
Van Basten’s harsh comments highlight broader concerns about the club’s direction under Ten Hag, whose transfer decisions are increasingly being questioned.
While figures like Earle point to systemic issues as the core problem, Van Basten’s remarks add further pressure on the Dutch manager.
If Ten Hag cannot stabilize the team soon, questions regarding his long-term vision and United’s transfer strategy are likely to escalate.
