“Because I’m calm doesn’t mean Amorim should take my simplicity for granted. What he said to me yesterday… I didn’t expect that from someone I call my coach.”
Those were the cold, sharp, unexpected words reportedly coming from Manuel Ugarte after the Wolves vs Manchester United match — and the dressing-room tension that exploded after the final whistle has now become the biggest talking point at Carrington.
Ugarte, known for his quiet discipline, work ethic and low-drama personality, stunned everyone when he stepped forward and revealed what truly happened behind the scenes. The Uruguayan midfielder, who had one of his best performances in weeks, was left shocked by a comment Ruben Amorim made to him moments after the win.
Sources say that after the game, while the players were still buzzing from the 4–1 victory, Amorim pulled Ugarte aside — not to congratulate him, not to motivate him, but to make a remark that instantly wiped the smile off the midfielder’s face. And judging by Ugarte’s reaction, the words cut deeper than anyone expected.
Ugarte reportedly walked away from the conversation visibly irritated, something teammates said they had NEVER seen from him. He later confided to individuals close to him that he didn’t understand why Amorim questioned his commitment and tactical discipline despite the strong performance. The comment, described as “harsh and unnecessary,” suggested the coach still didn’t fully trust him in crucial games — a statement that stunned a player who has given everything since joining the club.
“What he said to me… I didn’t expect that from my coach,” Ugarte reportedly told those around him. “I respect him. I listen. I work. But there are limits.”
The irony is that Ugarte had been one of United’s best performers on the night — breaking Wolves’ play, winning duels, shielding the defence and helping United dominate the midfield for the first time in weeks. Fans had praised him across social media, calling him “the midfield engine” and “the warrior United finally needed.”
But instead of receiving appreciation, the midfielder was met with questioning — and that’s what triggered his frustration.
Inside sources claim the situation only escalated when Mikel Arteta — who was in attendance and reportedly spoke with several United players post-game — approached Ugarte after the final whistle. Arteta, who has admired the Uruguayan since his Sporting CP days, reportedly pulled him aside and said something that Ugarte interpreted as both encouraging… and revealing.
Arteta allegedly told him:
“You’re better than what they’re making you look here. Don’t let anyone limit your game.”
Those words — bold, direct, and coming from a rival manager — struck Ugarte deeply.
It wasn’t just praise. It was a warning.
A warning Ugarte felt his own coach didn’t give him.
The tension is now undeniable. United’s dressing room, already fragile from inconsistent performances and rotation controversies, has another storm brewing — this time between a respected midfielder and a manager struggling to establish complete authority.
Ugarte’s calmness has always been his shield. But this time, he made it clear:
Calm does not mean weak.
Respect does not mean silence.
And Ruben Amorim has just received a message he cannot afford to ignore.
The next match will reveal everything — whether Ugarte starts, how he plays, and whether the relationship between player and manager survives this unexpected crack.
