Possible Call‑up
Diego Forlán, interim coach of the Uruguay national team, has considered calling up Luis Suárez for the friendlies against Japan and South Korea. Suárez, 39, would play his first international match in almost two years if the call‑up is confirmed. The Inter Miami forward would return to the Celeste after his retirement announced on September 6, 2024, when Uruguay drew 0‑0 with Paraguay in the South American qualifiers.
Context and Current Form
Forlán took over after Uruguay’s group‑stage exit from the 2026 World Cup and the Uruguayan Football Association’s decision to name him interim coach. The former striker has said there is no reason to exclude Suárez as long as he maintains his level. In the 2026 MLS season, Suárez has scored 10 goals and provided three assists in 16 matches, supporting his continued relevance.
Historical Impact
Suárez is Uruguay’s all‑time top scorer, with 143 matches and 69 goals. His last appearance was the 0‑0 draw against Paraguay in September 2024, before announcing his departure from the national team. A possible call‑up would mark the return of one of the Celeste’s greatest figures and carry symbolic weight given the striker’s link to the team’s recent history.
Relationship with Forlán
Forlán and Suárez shared the pitch at the 2010 South Africa World Cup, where Uruguay finished fourth. Both were key figures in one of the most memorable stages of the team’s recent history. They could now reunite in different roles: Forlán on the bench and Suárez on the field.
Upcoming Matches and Significance
Uruguay will face Japan on September 24 in Rifu and South Korea on September 28 in Seoul. These matches would be Forlán’s first as head coach and could also be Suárez’s first after his international retirement. The Asian tour would, if the call‑up is confirmed, be the stage for his return and allow the new coach to test his cycle while bringing back an experienced international striker.
