Midfielder expected to be out for most of next season
Manchester United have confirmed that Manuel Ugarte has successfully had surgery on the knee ligament injury he sustained while playing for Uruguay at the World Cup.
The 25-year-old was injured during Uruguay’s final group match against Spain and was carried off on a stretcher. Ugarte later revealed on social media that he had suffered “the most serious injury a footballer can face”.
Medical examinations confirmed ligament damage that required an operation, and United said the procedure had been successful.
“Manchester United can confirm that Manuel Ugarte has undergone successful surgery to address a knee ligament injury, which he suffered whilst representing Uruguay at the Fifa World Cup,” the club said in a statement.
“Ugarte will now begin the rehabilitation stage of his recovery and will be carefully managed by the club’s medical and performance staff.
“Everyone at Manchester United wishes Manuel well for his recovery and will be supporting him every step of the way.”
The injury is expected to keep Ugarte out for most of next season, ending any prospect of a summer move away from Old Trafford. United had been prepared to consider offers for the Uruguay international before his World Cup setback.
His absence leaves Michael Carrick with fewer experienced midfield options, although United have already strengthened that area of the squad by signing Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans during the transfer window.
The club are also expected to make further additions to their midfield before the window closes.
