Manchester United Confirm Manuel Ugarte Knee Ligament Injury

Manchester United have confirmed midfielder Manuel Ugarte sustained a knee ligament injury while on international duty with Uruguay during Friday’s World Cup group-stage defeat to Spain in Guadalajara.

Manuel Ugarte, 25, was stretchered off after twisting his knee awkwardly while attempting a tackle in the build-up to Spain’s winning goal, raising immediate fears over the severity of the injury.

Ugarte was examined by Uruguay’s medical team on Saturday and will now return to Manchester for further assessment before United determine the next stage of his treatment.

Reports in Uruguay have suggested the midfielder may have suffered a cruciate ligament injury, a setback that could sideline him for several months. However, United are waiting for the outcome of their own medical examinations before confirming the full extent of the damage.

“Manchester United can confirm that Manuel Ugarte has suffered a knee ligament injury whilst representing Uruguay in Friday’s World Cup group-stage match against Spain,” the club said.

“Assessment of the injury is ongoing to determine the best course of treatment and the rehabilitation timescale.

“Everyone wishes Manuel a successful recovery and we will be supporting him every step of the way.”

The injury comes at an uncertain point in Ugarte’s United career. Signed from Paris Saint-Germain for £50.8 million in 2024, the Uruguayan has struggled to establish himself at Old Trafford and has not featured since starting the Premier League home defeat to Leeds on 13 April.

He travelled to the World Cup aware he could attract interest from potential suitors, with United expected to reshape their midfield during the summer transfer window. A permanent move or loan had been widely anticipated, but the injury has cast doubt over those plans.

United’s immediate concern is now the player’s recovery.

The club have already agreed a £35 million deal to sign Atalanta midfielder Ederson, although his medical has been postponed after he received a late call-up to Brazil’s World Cup squad. He is expected to complete the move once Brazil’s campaign ends and after taking the mandatory three-week break.

United have also explored moves for Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson but pulled back because of the overall cost of the deal. Negotiations with West Ham over Portugal international Mateus Fernandes have yet to produce an agreement, while Tottenham are also interested.

Bournemouth’s Alex Scott remains on United’s shortlist, while Brighton previously rejected an approach for Cameroon midfielder Carlos Baleba.