Erik ten Hag confirms Manuel Ugarte debut latest as Manchester United boss responds to Cristiano Ronaldo | OneFootball

Red Devils return from international break at Southampton

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has confirmed new signing Manuel Ugarte is available for selection ahead of his side’s trip to Southampton on Saturday.

The Uruguayan midfielder, who joined from Paris Saint-Germain on deadline day, was not registered in time to feature in the dismal 3-0 home loss to Liverpool, but could make his debut at St. Mary’s Stadium.

"Manuel Ugarte, you will have seen he played for Uruguay, he returned this afternoon [Thursday], he was the only player who returned today, the rest yesterday, so he is available for this game."

As expected, neither Luke Shaw or Rasmus Hojlund are fit for the clash, although Ten Hag said both “are progressing very well” in their recovery from calf and hamstring injuries respectively.

They are joined on the sidelines by Leny Yoro, Mason Mount, Victor Lindelof, and Tyrell Malacia.

Addressing comments made by Cristiano Ronaldo in an interview with fellow United legend Rio Ferdinand, Ten Hag kept things brief and cordial with a player he had issues with prior to his exit in December 2022.

"He said that Manchester United can’t win the Premier League. He said this if you read the article very well. He's far away in Saudi, far away from Manchester. Everyone can have an opinion. It's okay."

The Dutchman also remained upbeat about his side despite their poor start to the season, which sees them sitting in 14th position after three games.

Cristiano Ronaldo criticised Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag

Rio Ferdinand Presents

“[It] doesn't impact me, I know in the process where we are, where we're going."

"We're in the transition period, we have to integrate a lot of young players in the team. We have to bring the injuries back in the team. Before anyone thinks about excuses, we have to win every game, I know that, the team knows this. We will focus on every game and have the mindset we have to win."

United will be looking to bounce back from two consecutive Premier League losses when they face the Saints in the early kick-off.