“That Substitution Changed Everything”: Fans Slam One Manchester United Player After Costly Draw Against Tottenham
Manchester United fans were left fuming after a late equalizer from Matthijs de Ligt denied them all three points against Tottenham. The 1-1 draw at Old Trafford sparked outrage across social media, with supporters pointing fingers at one player in particular — Manuel Ugarte.
United manager Rúben Amorim’s decision to introduce Ugarte in the closing stages of the game has become the focal point of fan frustration. Many believe that substitution disrupted the team’s rhythm and allowed Spurs to seize momentum.
Supporters took to X (formerly Twitter) to vent their frustration. One fan wrote, “Ugarte shouldn’t even be coming on when Mainoo is fit — and I don’t want to hear that ‘Mainoo isn’t a defensive midfielder’ excuse.” Another added, “There’s always this strange energy whenever Ugarte comes on. The team just drops off instantly.”
Others were even more direct, criticizing the Uruguayan’s overall impact: “He shouldn’t have been brought on at all. He adds nothing — no balance, no presence, no influence,” one comment read. Another fan went as far as to say, “United’s standards fall every time Ugarte steps on the pitch. He might genuinely be one of the worst players to represent a big-six club.”
While some supporters blamed Ugarte’s lackluster performance, others defended Amorim’s decision. They pointed out that Casemiro, who started the match, appeared exhausted late on, forcing the manager’s hand. “Casemiro is almost 35. He can’t play 90 minutes every week,” one fan reasoned. “Yes, Ugarte struggled, but Amorim didn’t have many other options.”
The debate has divided United’s fanbase — some demanding accountability from the coach, while others believe Ugarte has become an easy scapegoat. Regardless, the draw against Spurs feels like two points dropped, leaving Amorim with even more pressure as questions about squad depth and late-game management intensify.
