Manchester United midfielder Manuel Ugarte has torn his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), according to reports in Uruguay. The 25-year-old sustained the injury during Uruguay's 1-0 World Cup defeat to Spain, which saw his side eliminated from the tournament.
Ugarte was stretchered off the pitch at the Estadio Akron, visibly distressed, and was later spotted in a wheelchair. Scans have now confirmed the extent of the knee problem, delivering a major blow to both the player and his club.
Impact on Ugarte's Career and Transfer Plans
The Uruguay international joined Manchester United in 2024 from Paris Saint-Germain for a fee that could reach £50.5 million. However, he has struggled to make an impression at Old Trafford, playing under managers Erik ten Hag, Ruben Amorim, and current head coach Michael Carrick.
Ugarte had been expected to leave the club this summer, with several Serie A sides reportedly interested. The injury now puts any potential transfer in serious doubt, as he is unlikely to be fit to play a significant role next season.
United's Midfield Reinforcements
Manchester United's primary focus in the transfer market was to strengthen their midfield for Carrick ahead of a return to the Champions League. The club has already lost Casemiro, who departed at the end of his contract.
Brazil midfielder Ederson is set to join from Atalanta in a deal worth an initial £35 million, plus £3.8 million in add-ons. The 25-year-old is expected to sign a four-year contract, with an option to extend by a further year.
Speaking to Tuttosport after his late call-up to Brazil's squad, Ederson confirmed the deal was nearly complete: “It’s practically almost all sorted. I have to make the most of this moment. I am here and it is a wonderful thing, something you must always live to the fullest.”
