Suárez's World Cup dream over: Bielsa left him out of Uruguay's squad | OneFootball

In recent days, a rumor began circulating in Uruguay that Luis Suárez could have his ‘last dance’ with the national team at the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. However, the excitement was short-lived: Marcelo Bielsa did not include him in the preliminary squad.

“I would never say no to the national team if it needs me,” the Pistolero had said just under a week ago. He continues to find the net for Inter Miami alongside Lionel Messi and company. The huge buzz that was generated quickly faded, as it has already emerged that he is not among the 55 preliminary names, a mandatory step before the final 26 who will go to the World Cup are selected.

At 39 years old, everything seems to indicate that Suárez’s time with the Uruguay national team has come to an end, though with an indelible mark: in addition to winning the 2011 Copa América in Argentina, Lucho is La Celeste’s all-time leading scorer, with 69 goals in 143 matches. His last appearance was in September 2024, in a goalless draw against Paraguay in the World Cup qualifiers.

One of the decisive factors behind his seemingly definitive departure was his clear disagreement with Marcelo Bielsa. Although the player himself had stepped aside in 2024 to make room for a generational renewal, Suárez was very critical of the Argentine coach, which caused a major internal rift. Although he apologized shortly afterward, El Loco maintained his stance of prioritizing the younger generations.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.