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The Uruguay National Team is entering a new chapter in its history.
The Uruguayan Football Association announced on Sunday that Diego Forlán has been appointed interim head coach of La Celeste, following the resignation of Marcelo Bielsa after the team’s group-stage elimination at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
At 47 years old, the legendary former striker faces one of the biggest challenges of his coaching career: rebuilding a national team that entered the World Cup with high expectations but ultimately 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. The disappointing campaign marked the end of Marcelo Bielsa’s tenure, with the Argentine coach stepping down shortly after the tournament concluded.
The appointment of Diego Forlán carries enormous symbolic significance. Widely regarded as one of the greatest players in Uruguay’s history, the former striker was the centerpiece of the generation that returned La Celeste to the global spotlight.
His performances at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa remain among the finest ever produced by a Uruguayan player. Scoring five goals while delivering several match-winning performances, Forlán guided Uruguay to the semifinals and won the Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player, one of the highest individual honors in international soccer.
At club level, Forlán enjoyed successful spells with Manchester United, Villarreal, Atlético de Madrid, and Internacional, establishing himself as one of the most complete forwards of his generation through his finishing ability, powerful shooting, versatility, and leadership.
The Uruguayan Football Association confirmed that Forlán’s initial contract will run through March 2027. At that 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.
In addition to leading the senior national team, Forlán will continue serving as head coach of Uruguay’s Under-20 National Team, which is scheduled to compete in the 2027 South American U-20 Championship, a crucial tournament for developing the country’s next generation of talent.