Ugarte Express

FROM MONTEVIDEO TO PARIS

In just three years, Manuel Ugarte has gone from Centro Atlético Fénix in Montevideo to Paris Saint-Germain. It's a meteoric rise that started quite calmly for the Uruguayan midfielder, who began playing football in his local neighbourhood aged five, before joining CA Fénix's youth academy aged 11. Four years later, he was in the first team.

An attacking midfielder at the time, he had to wait another year before playing in the top-flight again. In the meantime, he and Fabian Coito crossed paths, a meeting that would change his career. The U20 Uruguay coach decided to reposition him as a defensive midfielder, and that changed everything. In his new role, Ugarte shone like never before, establishing himself as a first-team regular at C.A. Fénix and even becoming captain.

That caught the attention of Famalicão in Portugal, where he signed on 29 December 2020. Six months was all it took for Sporting to sign him, and he immediately established himself in the first team.

Over two seasons in Lisbon, he played 85 games and won the Portuguese League Cup, his first trophy. He then moved to Paris Saint-Germain, where he will have the aim of winning a lot more trophies.

LA GARA CHARRUA

In Uruguay, 'gara charrua' means hunger, unity, self-sacrifice and a winning culture, all characteristics that could be used to describe Manuel Ugarte. Committed, disciplined and determined, the eight-time Uruguay international's qualities shine through on the pitch.

A tireless worker, his spirit and skills won over the Sporting fans, and no doubt the Parc des Princes faithful will be equally charmed by their new man.

DID YOU KNOW?

Born on 11 April 2001, Manuel Ugarte made his pro debut on 4 December 2016 aged 15 years and 239 days. He came off the bench seven minutes from the end of C.A. Fénix's game with Danubio to come the first player born in the 21st century to play a Uruguayan top-flight match.