Uruguay appoint legend Diego Forlan as new coach after World Cup 2026 debacle
Uruguay have turned to former striker Diego Forlan to spearhead the next chapter of their national team, appointing him as head coach of both the senior men’s side and the Under-20 team, the Uruguayan Football Association (AUF) confirmed on Thursday.
The 47-year-old replaces Marcelo Bielsa, whose spell ended after Uruguay failed to progress beyond the group stage of the FIFA World Cup. Bielsa’s contract concluded following the tournament, with the veteran Argentine later admitting he had fallen short of transforming a gifted squad into genuine contenders.
Uruguay were part of the group that contained Cabo Verde, Spain and Saudi Arabia and only got two draws. They were beaten by Spain, which meant that they were eliminated from the competition.
Reports in the Uruguayan media also suggested that his relationship with sections of the dressing room had deteriorated during the competition.
“Forlan returns to where he left an indelible mark,” the AUF said in a statement.
“A role model, icon, and emblem of an unforgettable generation, the best player of the 2010 South Africa World Cup returns now to contribute his experience, leadership, and profound knowledge of international football from a technical position.”
Forlan will begin work immediately, initially taking charge of the Under-20 squad before assuming wider responsibilities with the senior team as part of Uruguay’s rebuilding plans.
One of the country’s greatest footballers, Forlan earned 112 international caps and played a pivotal role in Uruguay’s triumph at the 2011 Copa America.
Forlan won the golden ball during the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, where helped the South American side finish fourth. Forlan scored five goals and his volley against Germany was selected as the best goal of the tournament.
Since hanging up his boots in 2019, he has managed domestic clubs Pearol and Atenas, gaining coaching experience ahead of his biggest assignment yet.
His first fixtures in charge are expected to come during Uruguay’s scheduled international friendlies between September and November.
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