Manchester United confirmed Manuel Ugarte has undergone successful knee surgery.

Ugarte was stretchered off the pitch during Uruguay's final game at the World Cup against Spain, with his club later confirming he had suffered a knee ligament injury.

He made 22 Premier League appearances for United in 2025-26, though he only started eight of those matches.

And Ugarte, who had started all three of Uruguay's World Cup games, now faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines after suffering what he described on social media as "the most serious injury a footballer can face".

A statement issued by United on Wednesday said: "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.

On the comeback trail.

Wishing you all the best with your recovery, @ManuUgarte8 — we'll be with you every step of the way 

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) July 15, 2026

"Everyone at Manchester United wishes Manuel well for his recovery and will be supporting him every step of the way."

United had reportedly been open to offers for Ugarte this summer, though any potential transfer is now off as he is expected to miss the majority of the 2026-27 season.

The Red Devils have already added Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans to their midfield and are looking for a third option.

United begin their Premier League season with a trip to newly promoted Hull City on August 22.