The Uruguayan Football Association announced on Sunday the appointment of Diego Forlán as interim head coach of La Celeste, replacing Marcelo Bielsa, who resigned following the national team’s group-stage exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
At 47, the legendary former striker now faces one of the biggest challenges of his coaching career: rebuilding a national team that entered the World Cup with high expectations but delivered one of its most disappointing performances in recent memory.
Uruguay finished third in its group with just two points, behind Spain, Cape Verde, and Saudi Arabia, failing to advance beyond the group stage. That disappointing campaign brought an end to Marcelo Bielsa’s tenure, with the Argentine coach stepping down shortly after the tournament concluded.
The Uruguayan Football Association confirmed that Forlán’s initial contract will run through March 2027, at which point the federation will evaluate his performance before deciding whether to extend his tenure or appoint a new head coach for the next World Cup cycle.
Alongside his role with the senior national team, Forlán will continue coaching Uruguay’s Under-20 side, set to compete in the 2027 South American U-20 Championship, a key tournament for developing the country’s next generation of talent.
While Forlán’s playing career speaks for itself, his coaching résumé remains relatively short — he has managed only Peñarol, where he took charge of 11 matches, and CA Atenas, leading the club in just 12 official games.
