Interim appointment
Diego Forlán took over as interim coach of Uruguay’s senior team and the U-20 squad in 2026. The AUF chose the figure with strong identification with Uruguayan football after Marcelo Bielsa’s departure, whose cycle ended following Uruguay’s elimination in the 2026 World Cup. The role, although presented as interim, covers the direction of the senior team’s friendlies during the upcoming FIFA windows and coordination with the U-20. AUF president Ignacio Alonso is pushing this scheme to observe Forlán’s work over the coming months.
2030 plan
The AUF’s chosen horizon is the 2030 World Cup, in which Uruguay will be one of the host countries. The project envisions arriving at that competition with a stable organization and a distinct football identity. Forlán’s dual function would allow the AUF to assess his ability to develop players and lead a professional squad. His tasks include directing the senior team’s friendly commitments and working with the U-20 to build a new generation.
Celeste’s future
The continuity of Forlán beyond the initial period appears as the decision that could alter the Celeste’s project. The AUF must evaluate his performance before deciding whether to confirm him. Luis Suárez is also linked to this new phase. Forlán did not rule out recalling the striker, who retired from the national team in 2024 and remains in good form at Inter Miami. The coach valued his experience and goal-scoring ability, leaving open a possibility that was not available during Bielsa’s cycle. The AUF will evaluate his performance in friendlies and with the U-20.
