Manchester United midfielder Manuel Ugarte was carried away on a stretcher during Uruguay’s 1-0 loss to Spain at the 2026 World Cup.
Uruguay’s Manuel Ugarte is stretchered off with injury
Manchester United face a potentially serious injury setback following the latest update on Manuel Ugarte. Ugarte was carried away on a stretcher during Uruguay’s 1-0 loss to Spain in the final Group H match of the North American 2026 World Cup.
The United midfielder was clearly in pain with what appeared to be a knee injury after being challenged just before Alex Baena put Luis de la Fuente ahead in the first half as Spain took the lead at Zapopan.
The severity of Ugarte’s injury remains unclear, with United nervously awaiting news that the 25-year-old could be sidelined for a period of time while he recovers.
There had been mounting speculation that Ugarte could leave Old Trafford this summer, but that outlook is now uncertain and it appears the midfielder is facing a long-term absence.
The Sun reported that Ugarte was seen leaving Estadio Akron in a wheelchair with his left leg covered.
The Uruguayan Football Association has not yet announced the extent of Ugarte’s injury, and an update is expected in the coming days.
Journalist Rodri Vazquez claims Ugarte underwent tests for a knee injury in Playa del Carmen, Mexico, on Saturday, and it is expected to be confirmed that the United star has suffered a cruciate ligament injury.
Ugarte struggled throughout his season with United, but entered the World Cup hoping to make a big contribution for Uruguay in this tournament.
Uruguay’s World Cup trip came to an end with defeat to Spain, with Ugarte set to return to England to consider his options as he recovers from injury.
Manuel Ugarte sustains a serious injury while playing for Uruguay at the World Cup (Image: (Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images))
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Ugarte is reportedly attracting attention from Serie A clubs, but his recent injuries could cast doubt on his possible departure in the summer.
United look set to prepare for a busy summer transfer window, with midfield likely to be in particular focus with a number of high-profile players linked with a move to Old Trafford.
Atalanta’s Ederson has already put pen to paper to sign with United, with the Reds agreeing to bring the Brazilian to Manchester for an initial fee of £35m, with a further £3.8m in add-ons available.
West Ham’s Matheus Fernandes is also linked with a move to Old Trafford this summer, and questions remain as to whether Ugarte’s injury will have a knock-on effect on United’s transfer activity.
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