Diego Forlán approaches his first call-up as Uruguay head coach with excitement and a clear awareness of the challenge ahead. La Celeste, currently third in the World Cup standings with 2 points from three games, begins a FIFA friendly tour against South Korea, Japan, and India aiming to find better form after a run of five matches without a win.

Forlán addressed the media on Thursday at Carrasco Airport before departing for Asia. "I am happy, with very nice expectations considering the type of matches we have," stated the coach, who valued the high quality of the squad at his disposal. He emphasised, however, that wearing the Uruguay shirt and performing with the necessary composure is never an easy task, a feeling he knows well from his extensive playing career.

Nández's return

A highlight of this squad is the return of experienced Nahitan Nández, who was absent from the 2026 World Cup. Forlán, who played alongside him at Peñarol, praised his qualities. "He is a player who is important to have, not only for what he can give as a leader due to his experience and the years he has in the National Team, but also for what he gives you on the pitch," he explained. He highlighted his versatility and character, elements he considers vital for the group.

Chance for Satriano and newcomers

The manager also spoke about Martín Satriano, who debuted in 2022 but was not called up again. He pointed out that the striker, now in good form at Getafe, deserves a new chance to prove his level. Regarding the new faces, Thiago Cardozo and Juan Rodríguez, Forlán said he will evaluate them based on their current club performances, acknowledging that experience in European football brings hierarchy, but it must translate to the national team context.

Forlán mentioned he has several tactical plans in mind, confident that the players' quality allows adaptation to different systems. He aims to imprint an image of a team with high hierarchy and technical level to better control the ball and play more directly. The first test will be on 24 September against Japan, a strong opponent that will serve as a barometer. Fans can follow the team's progress and check the full schedule on our fixtures page, as well as the squad status on squad.

The coach concluded by acknowledging that debuts with La Celeste are often difficult, but expressed his hope that new players get minutes, whether from the start or off the bench. With morale high despite recent results, Uruguay seeks to correct its course in this FIFA window.

First reported at ESPN Deportes