Manchester United are bracing for a devastating injury blow after midfielder Manuel Ugarte was spotted in a wheelchair following Uruguay's 1-0 defeat to Spain in their final Group H clash at the 2026 World Cup in North America. The 25-year-old was stretchered off with a suspected knee injury after a collision shortly before Spain took the lead in Zapopan, with Alex Baena scoring for Luis de la Fuente's side.
Ugarte's Injury and Potential Cruciate Ligament Damage
The Sun reported that Ugarte was seen in a wheelchair as he left the Estadio Akron, with his left leg covered. Journalist Rodri Vazquez claimed that Ugarte underwent tests on his knee injury on Saturday in Playa del Carmen, Mexico, and it is expected to be confirmed that he has suffered a cruciate ligament injury. The Uruguay FA have yet to confirm the severity of the injury, with an update expected in due course.
Ugarte endured a difficult season at United and went into the World Cup hoping to play a key role for Uruguay. However, Uruguay were eliminated after the defeat to Spain, and Ugarte will now return to England to assess his next steps.
Impact on Transfer Plans and Midfield Reinforcements
United face a nervous wait to discover how long Ugarte could be unavailable for selection. There had been growing expectation that Ugarte could leave Old Trafford this summer, with interest from Serie A clubs, but a potential move is now in doubt. United are expected to have a busy summer transfer window, particularly in midfield. Atalanta star Ederson has agreed to move to United for an initial fee of £35 million plus £3.8 million in add-ons. West Ham's Mateus Fernandes has also been heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford.
It remains to be seen if United's transfer plans will be affected by the impact of Ugarte's injury. The club will await official confirmation of the diagnosis before determining the next steps for the midfielder.
