Ugarte's World Cup ends in tears
Manchester United midfielder Manuel Ugarte was left in tears after being stretchered off with a serious knee injury during Uruguay's 1-0 defeat to Spain in the 2026 World Cup. The loss eliminated Uruguay from the tournament.
The incident occurred just before half-time when Ugarte caught his studs in the turf after a collision with teammate Mathias Olivera. He was treated on the pitch before being carried off, visibly distraught.
Injury could derail transfer plans
United had been planning to sell the 25-year-old, who has underwhelmed since his £42 million transfer from PSG two years ago. He started only eight Premier League games last season and just one under manager Michael Carrick.
Reports indicated AC Milan were in talks to sign Ugarte, potentially reuniting him with former Sporting Lisbon and United boss Ruben Amorim. However, the injury could scupper that deal and impact United's transfer budget.
United's midfield overhaul
The Red Devils need to sign at least two central midfielders following Casemiro's departure. They have already brought in Ederson from Atalanta for £35 million and are battling Tottenham for West Ham's Matheus Fernandes in an £85 million deal. Interest also exists in Newcastle's Sandro Tonali and Real Madrid's Aurélien Tchouaméni.
Ugarte's sale was expected to help fund these moves, but his injury may now complicate those plans. No official update on his prognosis has been given, but speculation suggests he could be sidelined for many months.
