Manchester United’s new signing Manuel Ugarte showed Erik ten Hag exactly what he can offer his new team as he put in a masterclass in Uruguay’s World Cup qualifier vs Paraguay.

The former PSG man arrived at Old Trafford on deadline day after a prolonged saga that threatened to stretch United’s patience. Eventually, United managed to shake hands on an initial fee of £42m for the midfielder but this figure could rise to £50.5m depending whether or not certain clauses are reached.

Ugarte was in attendance last Sunday as he watched his new teammates put in a horror performance to lose 3-0 to Liverpool at Old Trafford. The 23-year-old’s direct competition for a place in the starting line-up Casemiro had a particularly difficult afternoon as he made two mistakes which led to two goals.

He was substituted at half-time for youngster Toby Collyer in a strong statement by Ten Hag. Ahead of the Premier League’s return next weekend, all eyes are on the manager to decide whether or not to give Casemiro another chance or choose to trust Ugarte.

Overnight, Ugarte did little to harm his chances of being picked at St Mary’s Stadium as he produced a brilliant performance in defensive midfield. While Casemiro lacked some spacial awareness in defeat to Liverpool last weekend, Ugarte looked in his element just in front of the backline as he helped deal with Paraguay’s press.

Ugarte was also doing his bit to prevent counter attacks too putting in some impressive last ditch tackles to evade dangerous opportunities for the opposition. While the game ended goalless, the midfielder will be pleased with his contributions that lasted 79 minutes in total.

This display will no doubt cause a headache for Ten Hag ahead of the clash with the Saints next Saturday.