Uruguay strengthens with Diego Forlán in charge

The Uruguay national team, known as La Celeste, decided to appoint Diego Forlán as interim head for upcoming friendlies after rejecting Marcelo Broli. The AUF announced that Forlán, U‑20 world champion in Argentina 2023, will guide the senior side while a permanent coach is selected.

What sparked the shift?

The AUF executive committee dismissed Broli, a leading candidate, because they did not want a long‑term appointment before next year’s internal elections. Forlán presented a sporting project aimed at the 2030 World Cup cycle, giving him more influence. Broli also said he was ready to return to the U‑20 squad but made clear his desire to lead the senior team, which the AUF deemed premature.

How will the coaching staff be arranged?

If Forlán takes the role, former captain Diego Pérez will serve as assistant, while fitness coaches Diego Estavillo and Santiago Ferro keep their positions. The AUF still lists other names, such as Mauricio Victorino and Mathías Cardaccio, who have previously been suggested for the U‑20 job. The final decision will be made before Uruguay plays eight friendlies between now and March next year.

What does this mean for the 2026 World Cup?

Although the main focus is the 2030 tournament, the move directly impacts Uruguay’s performance in the 2026 qualification. The latest result was a 0‑1 loss to Spain on 2026‑06‑27, and recent form reads 0W‑4D‑1L (LDDDD). With Forlán at the helm, the AUF hopes to steady the team and improve that streak before crucial matches.

What’s next for Uruguay?

The scheduled eight friendlies will act as a testing ground for tactics and players ahead of the next qualification round. The AUF expects that Forlán’s experience combined with staff continuity will bring the needed cohesion. Meanwhile, the final decision on a permanent coach will rest with the new board after the 2027 elections.