Manuel Ugarte, the Uruguay international midfielder for Manchester United, was stretchered off during his nation’s World Cup group stage match against Spain on Friday. The incident, which occurred shortly before halftime, has raised concerns regarding his health and potential implications for a summer transfer away from Old Trafford.
Ugarte, who started his third match of the summer tournament, was involved in an awkward collision. While attempting a tackle on Spain midfielder Pedri, he collided with his own teammate, Mathías Olivera. During the incident, Ugarte’s studs reportedly jammed into the turf, appearing to jar his knee. He was seen in clear distress, covering his face with his jersey and wiping away tears as he left the field after extensive medical treatment.
The collision happened moments before Spain scored the opening goal. Uruguay had requested a stoppage of play when Ugarte collapsed, but Spain continued their attack. Marcos Llorente delivered a low cross, which Alex Baena connected with for a shot. The shot, described as weak, bobbled over 40-year-old veteran goalkeeper Fernando Muslera, resulting in a goal. Muslera was substituted immediately after the first half concluded.
Nicolás de la Cruz was introduced to replace Ugarte. Uruguay ultimately lost the match 0-1 to Spain at the Guadalajara Stadium in Zapopan, Mexico. This defeat, combined with a draw against Saudi Arabia for Cape Verde, meant Uruguay finished third in Group H with two draws and one loss, failing to advance to the Round of 32.
Impact on Manchester United and Transfer Plans
The immediate concern for all involved is Ugarte’s health. His injury could significantly impact Manchester United‘s summer transfer plans. Reports have heavily tipped Ugarte for an exit from Old Trafford this summer, with several Serie A clubs reportedly interested. However, any hopes of United recouping the $66 million (£50 million) they paid for him in 2024 have long since faded, especially if he has sustained a serious injury.
The 25-year-old midfielder has had limited starting opportunities at United, starting just eight Premier League fixtures last season and only once since Michael Carrick took the helm in January. Despite this, he has been vital for Uruguay under manager Marcelo Bielsa, featuring from the start in all of their World Cup group fixtures.
Even if Ugarte has avoided an ACL tear, offloading a player whose last competitive outing ended on a stretcher would be challenging. The clubs linked with a transfer will almost certainly await a complete assessment of his injury before making any moves. His departure would likely have forced United to make another purchase, but these plans are now on hold.
Midfield Revamp and Other Targets
Manchester United is bracing for a midfield revamp this summer. The club still needs to find a replacement for Casemiro and provide cover for Kobbie Mainoo, who is expected to play more than half a season in 2026–27. The injury to Ugarte complicates these plans.
United is anticipated to bolster their midfield options, with Ederson from Atalanta reportedly poised to arrive. Mateus Fernandes of West Ham is also a firm target. Financial constraints have reportedly affected United‘s transfer activities, with Manchester City securing an agreement for Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest for £116 million, a player United was unable to acquire. Tottenham also appears to be in a better position to meet the valuation and salary expectations for some targets.
The full extent of Ugarte’s knee injury and its impact on his future at Manchester United and potential transfers remains to be seen.
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Source: si.com
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Charlie Bradshaw is the Senior Football Correspondent at News-GB, covering the Premier League, the EFL and the England national side with ten years of reporting experience. He covered Merseyside football before going national. He holds a degree in Sports Journalism from Liverpool John Moores University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Based in Liverpool, he watches non-league sides and collects old match programmes. “The back page is only ever half the story.”