The report says Ugarte suffered the injury while playing for Uruguay against Spain, leaving the pitch on a stretcher before returning to Manchester for surgery. His physical recovery remains open-ended, but the midfielder has made clear that the mental challenge is just as important.
“Ele me ajuda muito porque me faz olhar além do dia a dia. Às vezes, você se irrita com coisas que acontecem durante o dia e que não valem a pena”, Ugarte said of the support he receives.
The conversations reportedly cover personal life, books and his career, rather than football alone. That wider perspective can be vital during a long absence, when daily rehabilitation replaces the rhythm of matches, training and international competition.
Ugarte’s absence also comes amid reported changes at United. Youri Tielemans, Andrey Santos and Carlos Baleba were reportedly added to the midfield options during the latest transfer window, creating a more crowded picture for the Uruguay international.
Any assessment of his future appears premature. The report says a possible departure would not be considered until the January window, leaving Ugarte focused first on recovery and United facing a decision over how quickly to reintegrate him.
The Club Protection Programme reportedly offers salary coverage when a player is sidelined for at least 28 consecutive days, potentially limiting the financial impact of the injury on United.
That support may help the club manage the absence, but it cannot shorten the medical process. Ugarte’s next milestone will be a rehabilitation breakthrough, not a transfer decision.
The storyline to watch is whether he can return before United’s midfield hierarchy settles. Until then, his psychological work will remain as important as the treatment taking place on the training ground.