Erik ten Hag confirms new signing is 'available' to make debut against Southampton

Erik ten Hag has revealed that Manuel Ugarte is available to make his debut against Southampton this weekend after returning from international duty with Uruguay.

The Red Devils' newest signing Ugarte put pen to paper on a long-term contract at Old Trafford on deadline day, bringing one of the summer's longest-running transfer sagas to a close. The midfielder was introduced to United fans ahead of their disappointing 3-0 defeat to rivals Liverpool, but is yet to make his debut under Ten Hag.

The United boss has given an update on when fans can expect to see him in action, however, revealing that Ugarte is in fact 'available' for Saturday's visit to Southampton.

"Manuel Ugarte, we all saw him play for Uruguay," the Dutchman told reporters. "He returned this afternoon, he was the only player who returned today, all the others returned yesterday so he is available for this game."

He went on to confirm that both Rasmus Hojlund and Luke Shaw remain unavailable but are 'progressing very well'.

United began their 2024/25 campaign with a win over Fulham before defeats to both Brighton & Hove Albion and Liverpool. They currently sit on just three points and will hope to improve when the season resumes.

When asked about whether or not United's form will improve, Ten Hag replied: "We will see where we are in May next year, it is very early in the season and it is about winning trophies, be as high as possible in the league, do everything to win every game and then we will see in May where we are in the league.

"I know in the process where we are, what we have to do, where we are going. We are still in a transition process, we have to integrate a lot of young players. We still have to deal with injuries and bring players back into the team.

"Before anyone thinks about excuses, no, we have to win every game. I know that. The team knows this. We will focus on every game and have in every game the mindset we have to win."

United will return to action on Saturday when they travel to St. Mary's to face newly-promoted Southampton. They will then face League One side Barnsley in the Carabao Cup on Tuesday at Old Trafford.

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