Diego Forlán named Uruguay head coach
The 47-year-old former striker takes over on a temporary basis after Marcelo Bielsa's resignation.
The Uruguayan Football Association (AUF) announced on August 6, 2026 that former international striker Diego Forlán has been appointed head coach of the Uruguay national team.
Forlán, 47, replaces Marcelo Bielsa, who resigned after Uruguay's early elimination from the World Cup. The AUF said the appointment is on a temporary basis, with the contract leaving open the possibility of extension after an initial period.
Immediate plans and role
In a short statement the AUF said: "Diego Forlán returns home to take responsibility for the under-20 national team and the men's national team." His deal was finalised after several weeks of talks, the federation added.
The former Uruguay forward, who won the Golden Ball as the best player at the 2010 World Cup, will begin his tenure with a series of friendly matches planned for the coming months. AUF officials expect the friendlies to serve as the first tests of Forlán's methods and selection.
The appointment was also posted on the national team’s social account with the message "Diego Forlán returns home ✍🏼" and was published by the federation on August 6, 2026.
Photo: press material from the event
