Ugarte Suffers Serious Knee Injury
Uruguay midfielder Manuel Ugarte sustained a serious knee injury during the match against Spain, which led to the exit of Uruguay from the World Cup without surviving the group stage in consecutive World Cups.
Ugarte’s serious injury is a big blow to Manchester United's transfer plan in the summer, however, the length of absence is still unknown.
Injury Casts Doubt Over Summer Exit
Manchester United signed Manuel Ugarte in 2024, August, for a reported fee of €50 million with a 5-year contract. The player failed to find his place in the starting 11 in the last 2 years due to his fitness issues and inconsistent performances.
As Michael Carrick preferred Casemiro and Kobbie Mainoo as holding midfielders since he took charge, United considered Ugarte a selling asset in the summer to fund other signings for Michael Carrick.
Following the departure of Casemiro as a free agent, United signed defensive midfielder Ederson from Atalanta and is seriously exploring the market for more midfield additions in the summer. The club is active in the pursuit of Mateus Fernandes from West Ham along with Tottenham Hotspur.
Manuel Ugarte's latest injury has cast doubt over his potential departure this summer, with Manchester United now likely to reassess their plans. His uncertain future could also have a knock-on effect on the club's strategy for other transfer targets during the window.
Manchester United will receive compensation from FIFA's club protection program, which pays up to £120,000 a week of a player's salary if he is injured on international duty.