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Diego Forlan has agreed to take charge of Uruguay in an interim capacity following Marcelo Bielsa's exit after a disappointing World Cup campaign. The 47-year-old former striker will combine the job with his responsibilities as head coach of the under-20 team, and will lead the side in the upcoming autumn friendlies while the federation looks for a permanent manager.

Legendary striker takes up the role

Forlan has moved into the position of Uruguay's interim head coach after Bielsa left in the aftermath of a poor World Cup campaign. The 47-year-old former forward will continue alongside his present role in charge of the country's under-20 side ahead of the forthcoming qualifiers. He is due to lead La Celeste through a run of autumn friendlies as the federation searches for a long-term replacement, who is expected to be appointed by late 2026 or early 2027.

Poor campaign forces change

The federation's decision to turn to Forlan follows Uruguay's disappointing group-stage exit at the World Cup, where they picked up only two points against Cape Verde and Saudi Arabia. It was the second time Bielsa had failed to reach the knockout rounds in his three World Cup appearances as a manager. While Uruguay averaged 55 per cent possession during the tournament, that figure was not enough to keep Bielsa in the job.

Limited experience puts credentials under scrutiny

Forlan steps into the managerial role with limited coaching experience, having managed only Penarol and Atenas since retiring from football. Even so, he remains hugely admired in Uruguay after an outstanding playing career in which he scored 36 goals in 112 appearances for the national team and won the Golden Ball at the 2010 World Cup. The national great will now look to motivate the senior squad's Europe-based stars from the touchline.

Autumn fixtures provide first challenge

Forlan's first assignment with the senior team will come when Uruguay take on Japan in a friendly on September 24. Along with rebuilding the senior side, the coach must also concentrate on leading the under-20 squad to next year's Under-20 World Cup through the South American qualifiers in early 2027. His leadership will now be closely examined as he looks to restore the national team's pride on the world stage.