Manchester United are set to receive up to £6.5 million in compensation from FIFA after midfielder Manuel Ugarte suffered a serious knee injury while on international duty with Uruguay at the 2026 World Cup. The injury also derails the club's plans to sell the player this summer.
Ugarte's Injury and FIFA Compensation
Ugarte was injured during Uruguay's final group stage match against Spain in Guadalajara, just before half-time. He was stretchered off in tears as Uruguay lost 1-0 and were eliminated from the tournament. Early assessments indicate an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture, which could sideline him for 9 to 12 months.
While the injury complicates United's transfer strategy—Ugarte was expected to be sold this summer—it activates FIFA's Club Protection Programme (CPP). This global insurance scheme compensates clubs when their players are injured during official international matches and are ruled out for more than 28 consecutive days.
Under the CPP, FIFA covers the player's basic club wages at a daily rate until they are medically cleared to resume full training. The scheme caps coverage at approximately £6.5 million per player per injury, with a maximum weekly payment of £120,000. Since Ugarte's weekly wage at Old Trafford is exactly £120,000, FIFA will effectively pay his entire basic salary during his rehabilitation. If he is absent for the projected timeframe, United will recoup around £6.5 million.
Juan Mata Becomes Shareholder at Melbourne Victory
Former Manchester United player Juan Mata is set to take on an ownership role at A-League club Melbourne Victory, where he currently plays. The club confirmed that the World Cup winner has committed to becoming a shareholder, with a non-playing role to begin after his playing career ends.
Mata said: "Australian football has a future I genuinely believe in. From the moment I arrived at Melbourne Victory, I've felt the passion of this Club and the potential of the A-Leagues, and I want to be part of building what comes next – not just for a season, but for the long term. I have enjoyed so much this past season on the pitch, and committing to Victory as a shareholder is the natural next step. I want to thank everyone associated with the Club and across Australian football for the way they've welcomed me."
United's Summer Transfer Plans
Manager Michael Carrick is preparing for his first full season in charge, with the squad set for significant changes. Casemiro's departure has already created a void, which will be partially filled by Brazilian midfielder Ederson, who is scheduled to arrive after a medical in early July. However, Ugarte's injury has derailed another summer objective, as a sale now appears unlikely.
