Full Name: Manuel Ugarte Ribeiro
Date of Birth: 11 April 2001
Place of Birth: Montevideo, Uruguay
Height: 1.82 m (6 ft 0 in)
Position(s): Defensive Midfielder
Current Club: Manchester United
Footballers from Uruguay are known for their grit, passion, and exceptional talent, and Manuel Ugarte is no exception.
Ugarte's journey is marked by significant achievements from his early days in Montevideo to his rise as a versatile and combative midfielder in Europe. That's why we've compiled 13 intriguing facts about his childhood and the hidden biography insights that have shaped his career.
Below Are 13 Intriguing Manuel Ugarte Facts From Childhood and Hidden Biography Insight
1. His Youth Career Began At City Park
Every footballer starts somewhere, and for Ugarte, it was at City Park, a local club in Montevideo. His youth career there was where he sharpened his skills and developed a strong technical and tactical grasp of the game.
The foundation he built at City Park’s academy set the stage for his future success, providing the training and competitive experience necessary to advance in his football career.
2. He Later Transitioned to Fenix's Academy
Following his formative years at City Park, Ugarte moved to the youth setup of Fénix, another prominent Uruguayan club. His transition to Fénix marked a significant step in his development as he began to compete at a higher level. The change of environment and the increased competition in Fénix’s youth system played a crucial role in his progression.
3. He was Promoted to Fenix's First Team at Age 15
Ugarte's rapid ascent in football saw him promoted to Fénix's first team at just 15. This remarkable step-up highlighted his exceptional talent and maturity on the field. Guided by manager Rosario Martínez, Ugarte quickly adapted to the rigours of senior football, showcasing his readiness and potential despite his young age.
4. His Professional Debut was on 4 December 2016
Ugarte made his professional debut for Fénix on December 4 2016, in a league match against Danubio. Entering the game as a substitute in the 83rd minute, he contributed to a convincing 4–1 victory. This debut was a significant milestone in his career, marking the beginning of his professional journey in football.
5. He Became the Youngest Professional Player in Uruguay at 15 Years and 233 Days
At the age of 15 years and 233 days, Ugarte set a record by becoming the youngest player in the 21st century to play professionally in Uruguay. This achievement highlighted his exceptional talent and early rise in the football world, distinguishing him as a prodigious young talent in the Uruguayan football scene.
6. His Playing Position Changed From Striker to Midfielder
You won't believe it, but Ugarte actually started his career as a striker. However, his role evolved, and he was eventually converted to a midfielder. This positional change allowed him to showcase his skills in a new way, demonstrating his adaptability and expanding his impact on the game. The shift to midfield was crucial in his growth as a player.
7. He was Named Club Captain at 18
At just 18, Ugarte was appointed captain of Fénix, a significant leadership role that highlighted his maturity and influence on the team. His appointment at such a young age clearly indicated his resolve, leadership qualities, and the trust placed in him by the club’s management.
8. His First Professional Goal was on 10 March 2019
On 10 March 2019, Ugarte scored his first professional goal in a match against Racing Club, which ended in a 2–0 victory for Fénix. This goal was a memorable moment in his career, marking his contribution on the scoresheet and highlighting his growing importance to the team.
9. His Exploits at Fenix Led Him to Famalicão
After more than six years with Fénix, Ugarte signed with Portuguese club Famalicão on 29 December 2020. This move marked a new chapter in his career, as he transitioned to a more competitive European league. The signing was a significant step up and provided Ugarte with new challenges and opportunities.
10. His Economic Rights were Sold During His Famalicão Transfer
In his transfer to Famalicão, Ugarte’s economic rights were sold for €3 million, with the club acquiring 80% of these rights. This financial arrangement underscored his value and the potential seen in him, reflecting his growing prominence in the football world.
11. He Signed For Sporting CP in August 2021
In August 2021, Sporting CP secured Ugarte’s services with a five-year contract, acquiring him for a fee of €6.5 million for half of his economic rights. This transfer to one of Portugal’s top clubs marked another significant milestone in his career, offering him a platform to further showcase his talents in a more competitive environment.
12. He Had A Short-Lived PSG Tenure Before Transfer to Manchester United
Manuel Ugarte’s time at Paris Saint-Germain was brief but impactful. After joining PSG on July 7, 2023, for a €60 million transfer fee, he made his mark with 37 appearances, including 25 in Ligue 1 and 8 in the Champions League, where he started all but one of PSG's group-stage matches.
However, on August 30, 2024, Ugarte moved to Manchester United, marking the beginning of a new chapter with one of the Premier League’s most prestigious clubs. He became United's fifth signing of the 2024 summer after helping PSG secure the Ligue 1 title. Ugarte is also the fifth Uruguayan to play for Man United, following Diego Forlan, Guillermo Varela, Edinson Cavani, and Facundo Pellistri.
13. He is A Versatile, Combative Defensive Midfielder
Ugarte is renowned for his versatility and combative nature as a defensive midfielder. His ability to win back possession with well-timed tackles and strong defensive positioning is a key feature of his playing style.
Throughout his career, including a standout performance in the 2023–24 Ligue 1 season where he led the league in tackles, Ugarte has demonstrated his effectiveness in disrupting the opposition and contributing defensively.
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