The new coach
Diego Forlán took over as Uruguay’s coach after Marcelo Bielsa’s exit following the 2026 World Cup. In his press conference, Forlán said:
> "I have a great affection for Luis, we have a lot of trust. If he is selectable, being Uruguayan, it’s an option. He has experience, he has goals, as he continues to show every weekend… why not?"
He noted that Bielsa’s decision to leave Suárez out was a strategy to give new generations a chance, but with Forlán the situation could change.
Possible return of Suárez
According to Uruguayan journalist Sebastián Giovanelli, Suárez’s return would come in September friendlies, when the national team will face Japan and South Korea in FIFA. Forlán added that if the striker is “selectable”, he would consider him.
At 39, Suárez still shows his goal-scoring ability in Major League Soccer. In the 2026 season he has scored 10 goals and provided three assists in 16 matches for Inter Miami.
With 143 caps and 69 goals for Uruguay, Suárez is the country’s all-time top scorer.
Impact and figures
- Age: 39 years.
- Caps for Uruguay: 143.
- Goals for Uruguay: 69 (all-time record).
- Inter Miami (2026): 10 goals, 3 assists in 16 matches.
- Upcoming friendlies: September 1 vs Japan, September 2 vs South Korea.
If confirmed, Suárez’s return would give the national team experience and goal-scoring prowess at a time of transition under Forlán.
