Former Uruguay striker Diego Forlan is in discussions with the Uruguayan Football Association (AUF) regarding potentially leading the national team on an interim basis. The proposal involves Forlan overseeing six friendlies set for September, October, and November, in addition to managing the under-20 side. AUF president Ignacio Alonso mentioned that a permanent manager will be selected by the end of this year or early next year, as reported by Uruguayan newspaper El Pais.
Forlan, a highly esteemed figure in Uruguayan football, is known for his remarkable career that included stints at clubs like Manchester United, Villarreal, Atletico Madrid, and Inter Milan. With 112 appearances for Uruguay and 36 goals to his name, he is considered one of the country’s finest players. Notably, Forlan was awarded the Golden Ball for his outstanding performance at the 2010 World Cup, where he scored five goals to help Uruguay reach the semifinals.
The 47-year-old also boasts coaching experience, having managed Uruguayan clubs Penarol and Atenas in the past. This potential appointment follows Marcelo Bielsa’s departure after Uruguay’s early exit from the FIFA World Cup in June. Uruguay, a two-time World Cup champion, finished third in Group H following matches against Cabo Verde and Saudi Arabia, along with a loss to Spain.
Bielsa, who led Uruguay to 16 wins, 12 draws, and eight losses since taking charge in May 2023, refuted claims of a strained relationship with the players. The 70-year-old Argentine expressed disappointment over the team’s performance, acknowledging his responsibility for the outcome and the need for better utilization of the available resources. Bielsa’s departure marked the end of a challenging chapter for Uruguay’s national team.
