Manchester United midfielder Manuel Ugarte was carried off on a stretcher during Uruguay's World Cup match against Spain after suffering what appears to be a serious knee injury. The 25-year-old was caught in an awkward collision with his own teammate, Mathias Olivera, moments before Spain opened the scoring.
Ugarte immediately cried out in agony as Olivera fell onto his extended leg during a challenge for possession. While Uruguay called for play to be stopped, Spain pressed on and Alex Baena scored with a weak shot that bobbled over goalkeeper Fernando Muslera. Ugarte was seen in clear distress, covering his face with his shirt as he was removed from the pitch.
Impact on Manchester United's summer plans
The injury is a significant blow for Manchester United, who were already planning to bolster their midfield this summer. Ugarte, who joined from Paris Saint-Germain, has struggled for regular playing time at Old Trafford and was expected to be sold. However, a lengthy injury could deter potential suitors.
Nicolas de la Cruz replaced Ugarte for Uruguay. The midfielder had started all of Uruguay's group stage matches under coach Marcelo Bielsa. Ugarte has attracted interest from Serie A clubs, but according to sources, those teams will likely wait for a full assessment of his injury before making any move.
United's midfield targets
Manchester United are poised to strengthen their midfield, with Atalanta's Ederson and West Ham's Mateus Fernandes among the targets. Tottenham are also keen on Fernandes and are reportedly better positioned to meet his valuation and salary expectations. Financial constraints have already cost United the acquisition of Elliot Anderson, with rivals Manchester City securing a £116 million deal for the Nottingham Forest star.
The extent of Ugarte's injury will be determined by further medical tests, but early indications suggest a serious knee problem that could sideline him for an extended period.
