FIFA to cover around 80 per cent of Manuel Ugarte’s wages after World Cup ACL injury

Manchester United midfielder Manuel Ugarte tore his ACL during Uruguay’s 1-0 World Cup 2026 defeat to Spain, and FIFA will cover approximately 80 per cent of his £150,000-a-week wage under its club protection policy while he remains sidelined.

Ugarte had been expected to leave Manchester United this summer after two years at the club, having been signed as the intended successor to Casemiro; those plans changed when he suffered the injury. The 20-time English champions had planned to move him on but must now prioritise his rehabilitation rather than a transfer.

The injury has been described as a serious cruciate knee ligament tear sustained in the match against Spain, with the player facing a layoff of 9 to 12 months. United’s squad number 25 will therefore be unavailable for an extended period while he recovers.

According to The Telegraph, FIFA’s club protection programme will pay the equivalent of approximately 80 per cent of Ugarte’s £150,000-a-week salary for the duration of his absence. The policy covers the earnings of players who are injured while on international duty.

The immediate financial impact on Manchester United’s wage bill should be limited because most of Ugarte’s salary will be met under the scheme, and the club is reported to have the funds to pursue a replacement. INEOS are examining defensive midfield options and determining potential signings intended to replace Casemiro and Ugarte and add defensive stability in the middle of the pitch.

Any prospective summer sale of Ugarte has been put on hold while he undergoes rehabilitation, and FIFA’s wage cover will apply for the period he is unavailable to play.