Sunday’s 3-0 victory over Leicester City at Old Trafford by Manchester United was the perfect way to end the Ruud van Nistelrooy era.

The Red Devils’ victory puts them within four points of the top four in the Premier League. The squad has won three of its last four games under the temporary manager’s leadership.

In contrast to the Erik ten Hag period, players have been allowed to express themselves freely in the previous four games, and the former striker’s presence has also given certain stars new life.

One among them has been Manuel Ugarte, who was everywhere on the pitch on Sunday, winning 10 ground duels, and making 12 tackles in total, winning eight of them.

He was ignored by the former manager, with reports stating that Erik ten Hag had preferred other players in his stead, something that was not appreciated by the owners.

Under Van Nistelrooy, the Uruguayan has got regular minutes, which has brought out the best side of his game: his combative edge.

The 23-year-old, in tandem with Casemiro, hardly allowed the Foxes to keep the ball at times, making three vital interceptions while recovering the ball seven times (stats via sofascore).

With confidence restored, the former Paris Saint-Germain star found the courage to venture forward at times, and while his passing still needs improvement, there were plenty of positive signs.

The defensive midfielder had 68 touches of the ball and he ended the game with a 92% passing accuracy with five passes into the final third.

The Uruguay international also made one key pass while creating one big chance. He had an attempt on goal blocked and completed 100% of his dribbles.

Ruben Amorim, who has worked with the midfielder in the past at Sporting Lisbon, will be happy with his former pupil’s return to form.

He has formed a steady partnership with Casemiro but United fans will be waiting to see Kobbie Mainoo partnering him eventually once the Amorim era kickstarts.