Manchester United midfielder Manuel Ugarte faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines, potentially missing the entire next season due to a severe knee injury sustained during the World Cup.
The 25-year-old suffered the injury in Uruguay's final group stage match against Spain. Ugarte's knee twisted awkwardly during a challenge in the first half, leading to his substitution. Uruguay ultimately lost the match 1-0, ending their World Cup campaign and failing to advance past the group stage.
Reports indicate the injury is serious, with initial diagnoses suggesting an anterior cruciate ligament tear. This could sideline Ugarte for anywhere from eight months to a full year. Consequently, he is expected to miss the majority of the upcoming season, with a potential return only targeting the 2027-28 campaign, depending on his recovery progress.
The injury significantly impacts Manchester United's transfer plans. With Casemiro departing as a free agent, Ugarte would have been a contender for more first-team minutes. However, speculation had already linked him with a move away from Old Trafford. This lengthy injury makes a transfer highly improbable and forces the club to find a replacement for Casemiro without the potential funds from selling Ugarte.
