Manchester United are bracing themselves for potentially troubling news after midfielder Manuel Ugarte was stretchered off the pitch during Uruguay's 1-0 World Cup defeat to Spain in Guadalajara.

Ugarte landed awkwardly while attempting a tackle during the build-up to Spain's decisive goal. The 25-year-old was visibly distraught as he was carried from the field, and United are now waiting for Uruguay's medical staff to provide a full assessment before determining any next steps.

A difficult summer just got harder

The injury comes at a complicated moment for the Old Trafford club. Ugarte had arrived from Paris St-Germain for £50.8 million in 2024, but his time at United has failed to live up to expectations. He did not play a single minute after starting the Premier League home defeat to Leeds on 13 April, and it had been widely anticipated that he would leave — either permanently or on loan — before the new season.

Those transfer plans now hang in the balance. United's priority this summer has been rebuilding their midfield, and the club had already been moving toward an exit for Ugarte. His injury complicates those calculations significantly, with the club's immediate focus shifting to the welfare of a player they had hoped would rediscover his form on the international stage.

Ederson deal already secured

Regardless of how events unfold with Ugarte, United have already moved to reinforce their midfield options. The club have agreed a deal to sign Brazil midfielder Ederson from Serie A side Atalanta, with the transfer set to be completed once the World Cup concludes.

The hope at Old Trafford now is simply that Ugarte avoids a serious long-term setback — both for the player's sake and for the club's ability to plan their summer business with greater clarity.