Diego Forlán to Debut as Uruguay's Interim Coach in Asian Friendlies

Diego Forlán is set to make his debut as the interim head coach of the Uruguayan national football team in September. The former star striker will lead Uruguay in friendly matches against Japan and South Korea as part of a tour aimed at rebuilding the team after their disappointing performance at the 2026 World Cup.

Uruguay will face Japan in Rifu, near Tokyo, on September 24, followed by a match against South Korea in Seoul four days later, according to the Uruguayan Football Association (AUF). Forlán, who was presented as interim coach last week, will manage the senior team for friendlies scheduled between September and March. He will also guide the U-20 squad in their preparation for the South American Championship in January, which serves as a qualifier for the 2027 U-20 World Cup.

Forlán, a key figure in Uruguay's fourth-place finish at the 2010 World Cup, expressed his "privilege" in coaching a team that endured a forgettable campaign in North America 2026. Under Marcelo Bielsa, Uruguay was eliminated in the group stage after a draw with Saudi Arabia and Cape Verde, and a loss to eventual champions Spain.

The appointment has sparked speculation about whether Forlán will include veteran striker Luis Suárez, 39, in his squad for the Asian tour. Suárez, Uruguay's all-time leading scorer with 69 goals, had previously stated his willingness to return to international duty if needed. Forlán acknowledged the possibility, noting Suárez's continued goal-scoring ability and experience, asking, "why not?"

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Obviously having a player like Luis, with the experience, he scores goals, he continues to show it every weekend he plays, why not?