What did Uruguay's hierarchy announce?

Uruguay revealed on Monday that sporting director Luis Alberto Suárez has set clear conditions for Gustavo Pérez, former Audax Italiano player, to succeed Marcelo Bielsa. Suárez, who runs the national side, cited Lionel Scaloni as a model and demanded international experience and a defined tactical plan before any signing.

Why look to Scaloni?

Scaloni led Argentina to the 2022 World Cup title and has been praised for integrating young talent without losing competitiveness. Suárez explained that Uruguay needs a similar vision for the 2026 World Cup, where La Celeste aims to cement its attacking style while staying defensively solid. “We want someone who has shown he can blend youth and experience, like Scaloni did,” he said.

What specific conditions are set?

The sporting director asked for three main requirements: first, Pérez must have coached at least one national team in a World Cup qualifying phase; second, he must present a game plan emphasizing high press and ball progression; third, he must guarantee continuity for key players Luis Suárez, Federico Valverde, and Rodrigo Bentancur. Pérez, who retired in 2024 and has served as an assistant in European clubs, has not yet responded officially.

What is Uruguay’s current context?

Uruguay enters the qualifying stage with a shaky recent record: the last result was a 5‑1 loss to the USA on 2025‑11‑19, and its form over the last five games stands at 1‑2‑2, with two defeats in a row. Those numbers heighten the pressure on the hierarchy to find a replacement who can reverse the negative trend before the upcoming World Cup.

What does this mean for the 2026 World Cup?

If Pérez accepts the conditions, he could take charge before the final qualifying phase in 2026, giving him time to embed his philosophy. Otherwise, the federation may look for another candidate with experience in top European leagues. Either way, the decision will be pivotal for Uruguay, which aims to return to the group stage and contend for the title.

What’s next?

A meeting between Suárez and Pérez is expected by late July. Meanwhile, Uruguay will continue its preparation under an interim technical staff, keeping focus on upcoming friendlies against Brazil and Argentina. The Uruguayan fans remain watchful, hoping the new technical project restores confidence after the recent poor run.