Uruguay appoint Diego Forlan as interim manager following Marcelo Bielsa’s exit | OneFootball

Uruguay appointed Diego Forlan as their new interim manager after a disappointing summer.

He replaces Marcelo Bielsa, who resigned after the team made an early exit from the 2026 World Cup.

They drew their first two games of the tournament against Saudi Arabia and Cape Verde, before losing to Spain.

Forlan will now take up the role, his first in nearly five years, and only the third of his career as a coach. He will also be in charge of the Under-20 national team.

His performance as La Celeste’s interim head coach will be reviewed in March 2027.

Forlan’s appointment a significant gamble from Uruguay

The former Atletico Madrid and Manchester United forward has very little experience as a coach, making him a risky choice.

Forlan retired from professional football in August 2019, after a successful playing career.

His first job as a coach was in charge of Penarol just four months after his retirement, and he lasted 11 games.

He was appointed as coach of second division side Atenas in March 2021 and was sacked six months later.

Uruguay have chosen to emulate neighbours Argentina by employing a former national team star.

Argentina recently appointed Javier Mascherano take charge of their U20 team. They also have Lionel Scaloni, Pablo Aimar, Walter Samuel and Roberto Ayala currently coaching the senior team.

Forlan’s backroom staff has not been revealed, but he will speak to the media on August 10 as part of his official unveiling as the new manager.

His first game in charge of the senior team will be a friendly against Japan in September.