Manchester United have confirmed midfielder Manuel Ugarte has undergone successful surgery on a knee ligament injury.

Ugarte was taken off on a stretcher after suffering the injury in Uruguay’s final group stage game at the 2026 World Cup against Spain, which resulted in their exit from the tournament.

That came as a blow to United’s summer plans, as it was expected they would try to sell Ugarte to raise funds for transfer business.

But they have still been able to swell their ranks in midfield, signing Andrey Santos from Chelsea and Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa.

In a statement released on Wednesday, United announced Ugarte would now be focusing on rehabilitation as he prepares for what will likely be a lengthy absence.

It read: “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. 

“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.”

Ugarte joined United from Paris Saint-Germain in August 2024 in a deal worth up to £50.5million.

He has made 69 appearances for the club, scoring twice.