Manchester United confirm Manuel Ugarte knee ligament injury

Manchester United have confirmed that midfielder Manuel Ugarte sustained a knee ligament injury during Uruguay's World Cup group-stage match against Spain in Guadalajara on Friday.

Ugarte suffered the injury while twisting to make a tackle in the build-up to Spain's winning goal and had to be stretchered off the pitch. The 25-year-old was assessed by Uruguay's medical staff on Saturday and is now set to travel to Manchester for further tests to determine the best course of action.

While various media reports from Uruguay have suggested a cruciate ligament injury, which would keep the player sidelined for several months, Manchester United are waiting for their own medical assessment before confirming the severity of the situation.

Manchester United can confirm that Manuel Ugarte has suffered a knee ligament injury whilst representing Uruguay in Friday's World Cup group-stage match against Spain. Assessment of the injury is ongoing to determine the best course of treatment and the rehabilitation timescale. Everyone wishes Manuel a successful recovery and we will be supporting him every step of the way.

The injury raises questions regarding Ugarte's future at the club. The midfielder arrived from Paris St-Germain in 2024 for £50.8m but has struggled to find his best form at Old Trafford, with his last appearance coming in April. It was widely expected that he would leave this summer, but those plans are currently on hold while the club prioritises the player's recovery.

United have been actively looking to revamp their midfield this summer. The club has already agreed a £35m deal for Atalanta's Ederson, though his medical has been delayed due to his involvement with Brazil at the World Cup. Other targets, including Elliot Anderson and West Ham's Mateus Fernandes, remain part of the club's broader transfer discussions as they seek to strengthen their squad.