Forlán to Debut as Uruguay Coach in September Friendlies

Diego Forlán is set to make his managerial debut for the Uruguayan national team next month, taking the helm as interim coach for a series of friendly matches in Asia. The Uruguayan Football Association (AUF) confirmed that Uruguay will face Japan and South Korea as part of their tour.

These upcoming matches represent a crucial first step in the rebuilding process for 'La Celeste' following their disappointing exit from the 2026 World Cup at the group stage under former coach Marcelo Bielsa. The team is scheduled to play Japan on September 24 in Rifu, followed by a match against South Korea in Seoul four days later.

Forlán, 47, a celebrated figure who won the Golden Ball at the 2010 World Cup, will lead Uruguay from September through March. Concurrently, he will also take charge of the U-20 squad, preparing them for the South American Championship in January, which serves as a qualifier for the 2027 U-20 World Cup.

The former striker expressed his honor in assuming the coaching role during this transitional period. He also left the door open for a potential call-up of 39-year-old Luis Suárez, Uruguay's all-time leading scorer with 69 goals. When questioned about the return of the Inter Miami forward, Forlán acknowledged Suárez's continued effectiveness, stating, "Obviously, having a player like Luis, with his experience, he scores goals, he continues to show it every weekend he plays. Why not?"