Manchester United midfielder Manuel Ugarte was left in tears after being stretchered off the pitch during Uruguay's 2026 World Cup elimination match against Spain. The 25-year-old suffered a potentially serious knee injury after catching his studs in the turf following a collision with teammate Mathias Olivera, just seconds before Alex Baena scored the winning goal for Spain.
Uruguay's World Cup Exit
Uruguay needed a win against tournament favourites Spain to advance to the knockout stages after disappointing draws with Saudi Arabia and Cape Verde. However, a 1-0 defeat in Guadalajara, compounded by a costly error from goalkeeper Fernando Muslera, ended their campaign. The match was marred by chaos, with Agustin Canobbio receiving a red card and manager Marcelo Bielsa angrily confronting TV reporters.
Ugarte's injury occurred shortly before half-time. He was treated on the pitch before being carried off on a stretcher, visibly distraught. While no official prognosis has been released, there is speculation that he could be sidelined for many months, potentially up to a year.
Impact on Manchester United's Transfer Plans
Ugarte has largely underwhelmed since his £42 million transfer from Paris Saint-Germain two years ago, starting only eight Premier League games last season and just one under manager Michael Carrick. United had been planning to sell him to fund midfield reinforcements, with AC Milan reportedly in talks to sign him, which would reunite Ugarte with his former Sporting Lisbon and United manager Ruben Amorim.
However, a serious injury could scupper that deal and disrupt United's short-term transfer strategy. The Red Devils aim to sign at least two central midfielders to replace Casemiro, who has departed, and Ugarte. So far, they have brought in Ederson from Atalanta for £35 million, while an £85 million battle with Tottenham for West Ham's Matheus Fernandes continues. Interest in Newcastle United's Sandro Tonali and Real Madrid's Aurélien Tchouaméni also persists.
