Diego Forlán is set to become the new Uruguay manager on a temporary basis after Marcelo Bielsa left the role following a disappointing World Cup campaign. The former Manchester United striker, 47, will take charge until March 2027 and also manage the under-20 team.
Bielsa's exit after World Cup failure
Uruguay were eliminated at the group stage of the World Cup after two draws in three matches. Bielsa took the blame for the poor results amid reported dressing-room tensions. The Uruguayan Football Federation (AUF) president, Ignacio Alonso, told Teledoce that Forlán is enthusiastic about the role, with an agreement expected within hours.
Forlán's playing and coaching career
Forlán scored 36 goals in 112 international appearances, including a starring role in Uruguay's run to the 2010 World Cup semi-finals, where he won the Golden Boot. He retired from international football in 2014. As a coach, he has managed Uruguayan top-flight side Peñarol in 2020 and second-division side Atenas in 2021. His playing career also included stints at Villarreal, Atlético Madrid, and Inter Milan, while his time at Manchester United was largely disappointing.
