Manchester United midfielder Manuel Ugarte has suffered a significant long-term injury while representing Uruguay.
The 25-year-old has endured a challenging two seasons at Old Trafford, with speculation mounting that he could be moved on during the summer transfer window.
Clubs including Galatasaray, Napoli, and Atletico Madrid had been linked with a move, but that possibility has been effectively ruled out following his serious setback on Wednesday evening.
Ugarte sustained an anterior cruciate ligament injury during the first half of Uruguay’s World Cup group stage match against Spain.
Manchester United have yet to issue an official update on his condition, though initial indications suggest a recovery timeline of approximately nine to twelve months.
The development represents a major blow for the Red Devils, who had been planning to recruit a third midfielder following the anticipated departure of the Uruguayan international.
They may now be forced to pursue an additional midfield signing irrespective of Ugarte’s future, a scenario that could constrain their budget for other priority positions such as left-back or left-winger.
