Former Manchester United forward Diego Forlán has been appointed interim head coach of Uruguay’s senior national team following the resignation of Marcelo Bielsa after the country’s disappointing 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign.
Uruguay endured a difficult tournament, exiting at the group stage without recording a victory.
Bielsa’s team managed draws against Saudi Arabia and Cape Verde before suffering a 1-0 defeat to Spain in their final group fixture.
The Uruguayan Football Association confirmed that Forlán will take temporary charge of the senior national team while also overseeing the country’s Under-20 side.
Association president Ignacio Alonso revealed that discussions with the former striker were at an advanced stage, highlighting Forlán’s enthusiasm for the opportunity.
“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, although there are still a few details to finalise,” Alonso said.
Forlán’s initial contract is expected to run until March 2027, covering Uruguay’s upcoming friendly matches and preparations for the 2027 South American Under-20 Championship.
The interim arrangement will allow the former Uruguay captain to prove his coaching credentials before the association makes a final decision on the team’s long-term technical leadership.
Forlán, who enjoyed a distinguished playing career with clubs including Manchester United and Atlético Madrid, previously managed teams at club level and now faces the challenge of guiding Uruguay through a period of transition.
