Former Uruguay international Diego Forlán has been appointed interim head coach of the country’s senior national team following Marcelo Bielsa’s departure after Uruguay’s disappointing campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Uruguayan Football Association confirmed that the former Manchester United and Atlético Madrid striker will temporarily lead the senior side while also taking charge of the national Under-20 team.
The coaching change follows Uruguay’s early exit from the World Cup, where the South American side failed to register a single victory. Bielsa’s men drew against Saudi Arabia and Cape Verde before suffering a 1-0 defeat to Spain, resulting in their elimination at the group stage.
Association President Ignacio Alonso said discussions with Forlán had reached an advanced stage, describing the former forward as enthusiastic about taking on the role.
“If an agreement is reached with Diego Forlán in the next few hours, he will be the coach of the Under-20 team for the upcoming friendly matches. He is enthusiastic, even though there are still a few details to finalise,” Alonso said.
Forlán’s initial appointment is expected to run until March 2027, during which he will oversee the senior team’s friendly matches and guide the Under-20 side at the 2027 South American Under-20 Championship.
The interim role offers the former striker an opportunity to prove his credentials as Uruguay seeks to rebuild after its World Cup setback. His performance over the coming months is expected to influence whether he is considered for the position on a permanent basis.
Uruguay will now look to the two-time European Golden Shoe winner to restore confidence and lay the foundation for the country’s next phase of international football development.
