- Man Utd chose Manuel Ugarte over Joao Neves
- PSG benefitted from both deals
- Neves won his second Champions League
Manchester United made two costly transfer blunders during the 2024 summer transfer window. The Red Devils’ recruitment has been driven by INEOS since February of that year.
There have been some huge hits, including Matheus Cunha and Senne Lammens, who arrived last summer. INEOS’ focus on youth has also paid off, with Ayden Heaven delivering an impressive start at Old Trafford.
That said, Manuel Ugarte has proven to be a disastrous acquisition after arriving from Paris Saint-Germain in 2024. The Uruguayan joined the Reds in a deal worth up to £50m.
Man Utd’s Neves mistake
Ugarte’s time at United looks to be ending this summer as the club have reportedly informed him that they will look to sell. He has endured a dissapointing spell, failing to convince fans and the higher-ups.
PSG replaced the 25-year-old with Joao Neves and the Portuguese midfielder has been a revelation. Last night, he played a crucial role in the Parisians’ UEFA Champions League final victory over Arsenal.
Neves put in a sensational display in Luis Enrique’s side’s midfield, showing maturity beyond his years. The 21-year-old cost £50m and he had been on United’s radar before the Reds opted for Ugarte.
SunSport reported back in July 2024 that the club ‘let PSG overtake them’ in the race for Neves. That helped them land Ugarte rather than negotiate a fee with Benfica for the Portuguese midfielder.
The asking price was initially £100m but the Ligue 1 giants managed to seal a deal for half of that. It’s the biggest mistake INEOS have made since taking over sporting operations.
What could have been
Neves could have been the long-term heir to Casemiro that United are now trying to find this summer. He is a deep-lying playmaker who can operate as a central and defensive midfielder.
The Portugal international has appeared 21 times across competitions this season, posting five goals and one assist. His understanding and reading of the game are outstanding for a player of his age.
United moving for Ugarte and funding PSG’s swoop for Neves is embarrassing. The Parisians were eager to part with the Uruguayan and the club took the bait that saw them snub one of Europe’s best midfield talents.
There are other exciting midfielders on INEOS’ wishlist this summer. But none of them are quite as promising as the PSG youngster.
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