So you can share reports with users directly, however there are a few things to consider. First when sharing a report with someone, you they must be able to view the data/table that is being reported to see the data inside the report, but doesn't prevent them from seeing the report in general. Also, in the sharing section of the report, located here in this picture.

It will only require a role specifically to see the report in general if you fill in the box with a role, where it says requires role as pictured.

When searching for the report on the user, make sure to search All and not My reports pictured here.