Uruguay announce Diego Forlan as new coach

Uruguay has named former star striker Diego Forlan as the interim head coach of its national team, ushering in a new era after Marcelo Bielsa's resignation. Bielsa stepped down following Uruguay's underwhelming performance and group-stage elimination at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Uruguayan Football Association announced Forlan's appointment on Sunday, marking a significant moment for the national team as it seeks to recover from one of its worst World Cup showings. Uruguay finished third in its group with only two points, behind Spain, Cape Verde, and Saudi Arabia, failing to advance to the knockout stages.

Forlan, 47, has signed an initial contract running until March 2027. His performance will be evaluated before a decision is made on extending his tenure or appointing a permanent coach for the subsequent World Cup cycle. In addition to leading the senior team, Forlan will continue his role as head coach of Uruguay's Under-20 squad, which is preparing for the 2027 South American U-20 Championship.

Forlan's return carries considerable symbolic weight for Uruguayan football. Widely considered one of the country's greatest players, he was instrumental in restoring Uruguay's international standing. His standout performances at the 2010 FIFA World Cup, where he scored five goals, led Uruguay to the semifinals, and earned him the Golden Ball as the tournament's best player, remain iconic. During his club career, Forlan played for prominent teams like Manchester United, Villarreal, Atlético de Madrid, and Internacional, earning a reputation as a complete forward known for his finishing, powerful shots, versatility, and leadership.