Manchester United midfielder Manuel Ugarte has admitted hitting 'rock bottom' after suffering a devastating knee ligament injury during the World Cup. The 25-year-old was stretchered off the pitch at Estadio Guadalajara during Uruguay's defeat to Spain, an exit he says 'will stay with me for the rest of my life'.
Severity of Injury
Ugarte is set for months on the sidelines after being confirmed to have a knee ligament injury. The full extent is yet to be determined, with Manchester United releasing a statement: 'Assessment of the injury is ongoing to determine the best course of treatment and the rehabilitation timescale.' The club has not provided a specific timeline for his return.
Ugarte's Emotional Response
In a candid Instagram post, Ugarte wrote: 'Suffering the most serious injury a footballer can face in one of the most important matches in my country's history, and seeing it end this way without being able to stay on the pitch and support my teammates until the final whistle, is something that will stay with me for the rest of my life.' He added: 'Hitting rock bottom will make me stronger in every sense, and I truly believe that's the case here. Without a doubt, when life wants you to stop, it finds a way to let you know.'
Support from Teammates
Several Manchester United teammates responded to Ugarte's message. Mason Mount wrote: 'All here for you, brother.' Diogo Dalot added: 'Together brother.' Luke Shaw said: 'We are with you, brother.' Matthijs de Ligt, Patrick Dorgu, Ayden Heaven, and Tyler Fletcher also showed solidarity with red heart emojis. Tottenham's Pedro Porro offered: 'I love you, brother.'
Impact on Manchester United
Ugarte had been expected to leave United this summer after failing to break into Michael Carrick's plans in the latter half of the season. The former Paris Saint-Germain star has struggled to make his mark at Old Trafford since joining in 2024. United had already lost Casemiro, who chose to end his stay in the Premier League. Ugarte's injury means he will not be available for several months, affecting the club's transfer plans. United have prioritised signing a midfielder and have agreed a deal with Atalanta to bring in Brazilian star Ederson. They have also been linked with West Ham's Mateus Fernandes.
