Michael Carrick Confirms Manchester United Outcast Will Play Key Role in Top-Four Push

Michael Carrick’s early impact at Manchester United has been nothing short of striking. Three wins from three matches, achieved against Manchester City, Arsenal and Fulham, have not only lifted the mood around Old Trafford but also pushed the club firmly back into the top-four conversation. With no European distractions and a squad that looks re-energised, United suddenly appear clear-minded and competitive again.

One of the most interesting subplots of Carrick’s short reign so far is how he has handled players who had previously found themselves on the fringes. Under former manager Ruben Amorim, several individuals struggled either for form or for a clear role within the system. Carrick, by contrast, has quickly brought clarity and balance, and he has now confirmed that one of United’s so-called outcasts will still have an important role to play between now and the end of the season.

That player is Manuel Ugarte.

The Uruguayan midfielder arrived at United with a strong reputation following his time at Paris Saint-Germain, but his first season in England has been mixed. He has often struggled to impose himself, particularly in games where United have needed control and defensive stability late on. Reports have even suggested the club could consider selling him in the summer.

Despite that uncertainty, Carrick has made it clear that Ugarte remains very much part of his plans.

Speaking about his squad depth and midfield options, Carrick stressed the importance of having reliable players who can share the workload during a demanding run-in. He highlighted Ugarte’s role specifically, insisting the midfielder will “play a big part” for the rest of the campaign.

Carrick explained that the balance of the squad gives United “plenty of solutions” and that flexibility will be key as the season progresses. His comments suggested a manager who values squad players just as much as regular starters, particularly in a league where momentum can quickly swing on small details.

So far, Carrick has shown a preference for stability in his starting XI. Across his first three matches, he has made only one enforced change, with Patrick Dorgu replaced by Matheus Cunha due to injury. That consistency has helped United build rhythm, especially in midfield, where Casemiro has been central to their recent success.

However, Carrick has also been proactive with substitutions. Out of a possible 15 changes across those games, he has used 11, and three substitutes have been directly involved in goals. This shows a clear willingness to trust players from the bench and to influence games late on.

Ugarte fits into that picture.

While he is unlikely to become a regular starter in the closing weeks of the season, his role off the bench could still be crucial. Casemiro, despite his strong performances, has only completed 90 minutes in six of his 22 Premier League appearances this season. At 33, managing his minutes will be essential if United are to maintain intensity and protect him from burnout.

This is where Ugarte’s importance lies. Carrick needs someone who can come on, shield the back four, and help United see games out. That has not always happened when Ugarte has replaced Casemiro in the past. In several matches, United have looked more open after the switch, conceding space and inviting pressure.

The challenge for Ugarte, therefore, is clear. Carrick will want discipline above all else. While the midfielder’s energy and pressing are strengths, there are times when his eagerness to chase the ball leaves gaps behind him. In Carrick’s system, protecting central areas and holding position will be just as important as winning duels.

At 25, Ugarte is still at an age where improvement is expected, and Carrick’s calm, methodical approach could suit him. The United boss has already shown that he is prepared to back players publicly while demanding higher standards privately. That combination often brings the best out of squad players who feel written off.

United’s recent resurgence has also been built on defensive structure. The back four have looked more secure, and the midfield has offered better cover than it did earlier in the season. Maintaining that balance will be vital as the pressure increases, particularly with Champions League qualification at stake.

If Ugarte can adjust his game, stay compact, and provide reliable protection in key moments, he could yet prove his value. Even short cameos can swing matches at this stage of the season, especially when protecting narrow leads against top opposition.

Still, questions about his long-term future remain. With transfer speculation already building ahead of the summer window, it would not be a surprise if United listen to offers. Much may depend on how convincing Ugarte looks in these remaining appearances and whether he can earn Carrick’s full trust.

For now, though, the message from the manager is clear. Manuel Ugarte is not being cast aside. Instead, he has a role to play in United’s push for a top-four finish, in a squad that finally looks united, confident and moving in the right direction under Michael Carrick.