Forlan appointed Uruguay coach after World Cup failure

Diego Forlan, a celebrated former player, has taken the helm as the new head coach for Uruguay's senior and Under-20 national football teams. The Uruguayan Football Association (AUF) announced the appointment on Thursday, marking a new chapter for the national team following a disappointing World Cup campaign.

Forlan, who earned 112 caps for Uruguay and was named the best player at the 2010 World Cup, steps into the role previously held by Marcelo Bielsa. Bielsa's tenure ended after the team failed to advance from the group stage without securing a single win. The Argentine coach acknowledged in a press conference that he struggled to unite the talented squad, with local media also reporting tensions between Bielsa and some players during the tournament.

The AUF expressed enthusiasm for Forlan's return, describing him in a statement as "a role model, icon, and emblem of an unforgettable generation." The association highlighted his intention to contribute his "experience, leadership, and profound knowledge of international football from a technical position."

Forlan, a former forward for clubs like Manchester United, Atletico Madrid, and Inter Milan, retired from playing in 2019. He has since gained coaching experience with Uruguayan clubs Penarol and Atenas. He will commence his duties immediately with the Under-20 team and will oversee Uruguay's friendly matches scheduled from September to November.

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Forlan returns to where he left an indelible mark. 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.