Diego Forlán began officially a new stage linked to the Uruguayan national team, this time from the other side of the pitch. After being presented as the new coach of the Celeste, the former footballer used his social media to express his first feelings about the challenge. "Proud and very grateful to be back home and leading my team, my country", began writing Forlán, accompanying the post with images of his official presentation.

The former striker, who had an extensive and outstanding career defending Uruguay as a footballer, emphasized what it means for him to wear the colors of the selection from a new function. "Wearing the Celeste has always been a dream, and being able to represent it from this place is a huge privilege and a great responsibility", he expressed.

Forlán also made it clear what he intends to be the bases of this new process in front of the national team. "With humility, hard work and passion, we will try together to take the flag to the highest", he added.

The message closed with a resounding "¡Uruguay nomá!" and the Uruguayan flag, in a post that marked his first public words on social media after taking the job.

The official presentation of Diego Forlán took place on Monday at the Celeste Complex, where he was accompanied by Ignacio Alonso, president of the Uruguayan Football Association. During the event, the AUF president handed him a Uruguay jersey and also projected a video that reviewed the history of Cachavacha defending the selection.

The former striker took on the role of coach of the Under-20 national team and, at the same time, took over the senior team on an interim basis. In principle, he will direct the next two friendly matches against Japan and South Korea, although his arrival opens a new stage after the departure of Marcelo Bielsa after the 2026 World Cup in Canada, Mexico and the United States.

"My skin is standing on end. It's not the selection, it's your country and having the privilege of singing the anthem is something wonderful. I felt like I was at home", Forlán said during his first press conference, leaving clear the emotional charge he has for this return to the Celeste.

Forlán also referred to one of the main challenges he will face: finding a balance between experienced players and young generations. The coach assured that he likes to bet on young players and give them opportunities, although he emphasized that they will have to demonstrate that they are prepared to compete for a place with more experienced players.

Even left open a door that quickly closed, but that leaves clear that he is willing to work with young players.

The Uruguayan national team is currently third in the 2026 World Cup classification, with 2 points obtained in 3 games, and is 5 points behind the leaders Spain. Their last result was a 1-0 loss to Spain in June.

The Uruguayan national team has a streak of 0 wins, 4 draws and 1 loss in their last 5 games.