Michael Carrick is overseeing a summer of change at Manchester United, with less than two months before his first full season as boss begins. The club is expected to back him in the transfer window, but one key plan has been disrupted. Manuel Ugarte, who was expected to be sold, suffered a severe knee injury while playing for Uruguay at World Cup 2026, making a summer exit unlikely. However, United will receive significant compensation from FIFA.
Ugarte's Injury and FIFA Compensation
Ugarte injured his knee in Uruguay's final group stage match against Spain in Guadalajara, just before half-time. He was taken off the field in tears on a stretcher as his country lost 1-0 and were eliminated. Initial assessments indicate a severe anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear, likely sidelining him for 9 to 12 months.
While the injury disrupts United's transfer plans, it triggers a financial safeguard through FIFA's Club Protection Programme (CPP). This program acts as a worldwide insurance policy, protecting clubs from the financial burden of paying players injured on international duty. FIFA's policy applies once a player has been sidelined for more than 28 consecutive days due to an international match accident. After that period, FIFA covers the player's basic club salary at a daily rate until medical clearance to return to training.
The policy caps coverage at around £6.5 million per player per injury, with a maximum weekly payout of £120,000. Since Ugarte's weekly wage at Old Trafford is £120,000, FIFA will absorb his entire basic salary during recovery. United will receive approximately £6.5 million in compensation if he is sidelined for the estimated period.
Juan Mata Becomes Owner at Melbourne Victory
Former United star Juan Mata is expected to take an ownership role at Melbourne Victory, the A-League club he currently plays for. The club has announced that the World Cup winner has agreed to become a shareholder, with an off-field position starting 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."
Other Transfer News
The departure of Casemiro has left United needing reinforcement in midfield. Brazilian midfielder Ederson will arrive after undergoing a medical in early July, but this only partially addresses the gap. United's summer plans have been further complicated by Ugarte's injury, with his exit now unlikely.
