The Uruguayan Football Association (AUF) confirmed on Thursday that former international striker Diego Forlan has been appointed to lead the national team. In a brief statement, the association noted that Forlan is returning home to take charge of both the senior national team and the Under-20 squad.
Forlan, 47, steps into the role on an interim basis, succeeding Marcelo Bielsa, who resigned following Uruguay’s early exit from the World Cup group stage. While his initial appointment is interim, AUF sources have indicated that the contract includes provisions for a potential extension. Forlan is expected to manage the side through upcoming friendly matches scheduled for September, October, and March.
The appointment follows weeks of negotiations. The national team is currently in a period of transition after failing to advance from the group stage for the second consecutive World Cup. Their latest campaign saw them struggle with draws against Saudi Arabia and Cape Verde before a decisive loss to eventual champions Spain confirmed their elimination.
Bielsa’s tenure faced significant public scrutiny, particularly regarding his tactical choices and the controversial decision to bring veteran goalkeeper Fernando Muslera out of international retirement. Muslera’s subsequent performance, marked by a series of errors, became a focal point for critics of the 71-year-old manager.
Despite his legendary status as a player, Forlan enters the role with limited managerial experience. His coaching career began in 2020 at his former club, Penarol, where he lasted only 11 matches, and he later managed the second-division side Atenas for 12 games in 2021.
However, Forlan remains a revered figure in Uruguayan football. Over 112 international appearances, he scored 36 goals, including five during the team’s historic run to the 2010 World Cup semi-finals, where he was awarded the Golden Ball. He was also a pivotal member of the 2011 Copa America-winning squad alongside Luis Suarez.
His decorated club career included prolific stints at Villarreal and Atletico Madrid, where he earned the European Golden Shoe with both clubs. He also played for Manchester United between 2001 and 2004, securing a Premier League title in the 2002/03 season despite a challenging tenure in England.
The agreement with Forlan, who won the Golden Ball award for player of the tournament at the 2010 World Cup, was finalised after weeks of negotiations.
Forlan named new Uruguay head coach
