Diego Forlan, a legendary figure for Uruguay and former Manchester United striker, has been appointed as the head coach for both the senior national team and the Under-20 squad. This appointment follows the departure of Marcelo Bielsa, who stepped down after Uruguay's group stage exit at the recent World Cup.
The Uruguayan Football Association announced Forlan's dual role as part of a strategic initiative to enhance the development pathway from the youth teams to the senior national squad. Forlan's tenure will begin with the senior team in upcoming international friendlies scheduled for September and October.
"One of the most important figures in the history of La Celeste begins a new chapter: he will be the head coach of both the Under-20 and Senior National Teams," a statement from the Uruguayan Football Association read. "Forlan returns to where he left an indelible mark. A role model, icon, and emblem of an unforgettable generation, the best player of the 2010 South Africa World Cup returns now to contribute his experience, leadership, and profound knowledge of international football from a technical position."
Forlan will immediately commence work with the Under-20 team, focusing on developing young talent and facilitating their progression to the senior national team. He will be supported by assistant coaches Santiago Espasandín and Diego Perez, physical trainer Marco Mansulino, goalkeeping coach Ignacio Bordad, and video analyst Gabriel Skrilec.
During his illustrious playing career, Forlan scored 36 goals in 112 appearances for Uruguay. He represented his country in three World Cups and multiple Copa Americas, notably starring in the 2010 World Cup where he scored five goals and was named player of the tournament as Uruguay reached the semi-finals. He was also part of the Copa America-winning squad in 2011.
Forlan's coaching experience includes a brief spell managing his former club Peñarol, which ended in his dismissal in 2020, followed by a 12-match tenure with Atenas. Reports suggest his appointment as national team coach may initially be on an interim basis, with a review planned for March of the following year.