Manchester United faces long-term loss of midfielder Manuel Ugarté after knee injury

Manchester United midfielder Manuel Ugarté suffered a serious knee injury during Uruguay's 1-0 loss to Spain at the World Cup, forcing him to leave the pitch with a brace before halftime. Medical examinations indicated a likely anterior cruciate ligament rupture, meaning a recovery period of nine to twelve months. The club will be without the 25‑year‑old for most of the upcoming season.

Under FIFA's Club Protection Programme, Manchester United is expected to receive compensation of roughly £5.8 million, covering the player's salary while he is sidelined. This financial reimbursement eases the club’s burden but does not offset the sporting impact of losing a key player.

The injury also harms Uruguay's World Cup campaign, as Ugarté had started all three group‑stage games. Both Manchester United and the Uruguay football federation are monitoring the situation closely.