Manchester United midfielder Manuel Ugarte faces a lengthy spell out after picking up a serious injury during the recent World Cup this summer
Manuel Ugarte reacts
Manuel Ugarte could be out injured for some time (Image: Getty Images)
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Manuel Ugarte has been supported by Manchester United teammates after sharing an update on his recovery from injury. The midfielder faces a significant period on the sidelines after being stretchered off during Uruguay's 1-0 defeat to Spain in the recent FIFA World Cup.
That loss and injury were compounded by another blow, as it ended the South American nation's hopes of reaching the knockout stages. The 25-year-old suffered the injury after an inadvertent clash with his own team-mate as he and Mathias Olivera both challenged for possession late in the first half.
Olivera reached the ball first and, in the aftermath, fell onto the United player's extended leg. The unfortunate incident saw Ugarte stretchered off in tears.
The Reds say he has undergone successful surgery and has begun the rehabilitation stage of his recovery. It is unclear when he will be fit enough to return to action.
And the former Sporting star has now shared an update on Instagram. "Recovery. Rebuild. Rise," he said in the caption alongside several recent photos of him in recovery.
Among the teammates to post a message of support in the comments were Mason Mount. The fellow midfielder said: "With you brother!"
Luke Shaw was another player to send his best wishes. The 31-year-old said: "Let’s go Manu," alongside three love heart emojis.
Amad Diallo also showed his support - simply responding with two love heart emojis on the post.
FIFA's Club Protection Programme will cover Ugarte's salary if he is out for at least 28 consecutive days. The scheme pays the salary of an injured player up to a maximum of €7.5m (£6.6m) until they are declared fit to return for their club.
The Reds have planned to sign three midfielders during the summer transfer window; however, that was partly contingent on United finding a buyer for Ugarte.
And that now raises an issue as Ugarte's injury means he is likely to stay at United until at least the January transfer window. The Reds have already signed two new midfielders in Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans.
More deals are expected at Old Trafford before the summer window closes on September 1, but the Reds will also need to make sales.