Former Manchester United striker Diego Forlan has been appointed as head coach of Uruguay's national team and Under-20s side following Marcelo Bielsa's departure. Bielsa stepped down after two-time champions Uruguay failed to progress past the group stage at the World Cup.
Uruguay opened their World Cup campaign with draws against Saudi Arabia and Cape Verde before a defeat to Spain confirmed their exit from the tournament.
The Uruguayan Football Association stated that Forlan will take up the dual role as part of a project to strengthen the pathway from the Under-20 team into the senior national squad. The former Atletico Madrid forward will take charge of the senior team for the first time during upcoming FIFA friendlies in September and October.
Coaching Staff and Tactical Project
In a statement, the Uruguayan Football Association welcomed Forlan back to the national setup: "One of the most important figures in the history of La Celeste begins a new chapter: he will be the head coach of both the Under-20 and Senior National Teams. Forlan returns to where he left an indelible mark. A role model, icon, and emblem of an unforgettable generation, the best player of the 2010 South Africa World Cup returns now to contribute his experience, leadership, and profound knowledge of international football from a technical position."
The association added that Forlan will begin work immediately with the Under-20 side to develop young talent and support their growth into the senior team. His backroom staff includes assistant coaches Santiago Espasandín and Diego Perez, physical trainer Marco Mansulino, goalkeeping coach Ignacio Bordad, and video analyst Gabriel Skrilec.
The AUF stated: "His first challenge at the helm of the senior national team will come during the September-October international window, when Uruguay plays its FIFA friendly matches. It will mark the beginning of a new era, with one of its greatest idols once again at the helm."
Reports have claimed Forlan's appointment is initially on an interim basis, with a review expected to take place in March next year.
International Legacy and Coaching Experience
During his playing career, Forlan scored 36 goals in 112 appearances for Uruguay and represented the national team at three World Cups and Copa Americas.
Forlan captained and starred at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, scoring five goals and winning player of the tournament as Uruguay reached the semi-finals for the first time since 1970. The forward was also part of Uruguay's Copa America winning side the following year.
The 47-year-old has limited managerial experience, having coached his former club Penarol for 11 matches before being sacked in 2020, followed by a brief 12-match spell in charge of Atenas. Forlan also made his professional tennis debut back in 2024.
