Manuel Ugarte shares his thoughts on Ruben Amorim’s first contentious decision as Manchester United manager.

Manuel Ugarte has praised Darren Fletcher for helping players understand the significance of representing Manchester United, following news that Fletcher will remain at the club.

The recent appointment of Ruben Amorim as United’s new head coach has already brought significant changes, including the departure of former interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy. Amorim, who arrived with five staff members from Sporting Lisbon, opted to let Van Nistelrooy go, but Fletcher retained his position as a coach under the Portuguese manager.

Previously the club’s technical director, Fletcher transitioned earlier this year to a coaching role focused on bridging the gap between the first team and the academy. Despite his deep connection to the club, where he made 342 appearances, some fans questioned why he was retained over Van Nistelrooy.

Ugarte, however, has highlighted Fletcher’s vital presence in the dressing room since the midfielder joined United from Paris Saint-Germain in the summer. Speaking to the club’s official media, Ugarte said, “We all know what it means to be United, with the history, the fans, and the mystique. I understand the responsibility, and it starts with being fully committed every day, focused on football, and determined to win trophies.

“When you come here and interact with people like Fletcher, who are part of the club’s history, they pass on what it truly means to represent United.”

Having played 85 matches under Amorim at Sporting Lisbon, Ugarte also shared his excitement about reuniting with the coach. Reflecting on his time in Portugal, he said, “Sporting is one of the biggest clubs in Portugal, and my time there was incredible. The city, the people, my teammates, and the coaching staff made me feel at home, which helped me succeed. Ruben Amorim played a significant role in that.”