In a scathing critique that has sent shockwaves through the football community, Dutch legend Marco van Basten has lambasted Manchester United’s recent transfer decisions, particularly targeting the acquisition of midfielder Manuel Ugarte. Van Basten’s comments come in the wake of United’s disheartening 3-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur, a performance that has left fans and pundits questioning the club’s current trajectory.
Speaking on Ziggo Sport, Van Basten did not mince words:
> “I saw a new player walking around at Manchester United, Ugarte, for £50 million. How is this guy walking around there? It’s idiotic how much Ten Hag has decided to invest in players who are not even good.”
The 23-year-old Uruguayan midfielder, signed from Paris Saint-Germain for a reported £50.5 million, was brought in to bolster United’s midfield. However, his performances have been underwhelming. In his Premier League debut against Tottenham, Ugarte struggled significantly, leading to his substitution in the 72nd minute.
Van Basten’s criticism didn’t stop at Ugarte. He broadened his scope to question the overall quality of United’s squad:
> “It’s true that the big clubs—Real Madrid, Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester City, Arsenal—they get the better ones, and he always comes with second-rate players. That team has not got better.”
He further emphasized the lack of leadership and star quality within the team:
> “There is no star walking around who organises it, who leads, none.”
These remarks have intensified the scrutiny on manager Erik ten Hag’s transfer strategy. Despite a significant outlay exceeding £700 million, the anticipated improvements on the pitch have yet to materialize. The recent defeat to Tottenham has only exacerbated concerns, with United currently languishing in 13th place in the Premier League, a staggering eight points adrift of the top spot.
The pressure is mounting on Ten Hag to justify his recruitment choices and to reverse the team’s fortunes. The upcoming fixtures will be crucial, not only for United’s standing in the league but also for restoring faith among supporters and stakeholders.
Van Basten’s candid assessment serves as a stark reminder of the high expectations associated with a club of Manchester United’s stature. As the season progresses, the onus is on Ten Hag and his squad to demonstrate resilience, tactical acumen, and the quality befitting their illustrious history.
In the high-stakes world of elite football, criticism from figures like Van Basten underscores the relentless scrutiny clubs face. For Manchester United, the message is clear: immediate and effective action is imperative to navigate the challenges ahead and to reclaim their position at the pi
nnacle of English football.