Diego Forlan appointed head coach of Uruguay senior and U-20 teams after Bielsa exit

Former Manchester United and Atletico Madrid striker Diego Forlan has been named head coach of Uruguay’s national football team and will also coach the Uruguayan Under-20 side, according to a Uruguayan Football Association statement released on August 7, 2026. The 47‑year‑old, who won the Golden Ball at the 2010 World Cup, takes over after Marcelo Bielsa stepped down following Uruguay’s failure to advance from the group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Forlan’s appointment is significant because it links the senior team with the U‑20 squad, aiming to create a seamless pathway for young talent into La Celeste. His dual role comes at a time when Uruguay seeks to rebuild after a disappointing World Cup campaign and regain competitiveness in upcoming Copa America and World Cup qualifiers.

Forlan will begin work immediately, overseeing preparations for upcoming friendlies and qualifiers; the length of his contract was not disclosed. Uruguayan fans will watch closely to see if his storied playing career translates into coaching success, especially in developing the next generation for Copa America 2028 and the 2030 World Cup. Will his leadership restore Uruguay’s standing among South America’s elite?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/08/07/ex-man-utd-striker-diego-forlan-lands-new-managerial-job/