Diego Forlan has been named the new head coach of the Uruguay national team following Marcelo Bielsa’s exit in June.

The Celeste failed to advance from the World Cup 2026 group stage, drawing with Saudi Arabia and Cape Verde and losing to Spain.

A Uruguayan FA statement called Forlan “one of the most important figures” in their history, adding that the 47-year-old will also take over the Under-20 team.

La vuelta de la leyenda 😉 pic.twitter.com/cllfYv4aLC

Diego Forlan: Uruguay FA full statement

“Forlan returns to where he left an indelible mark,” added the FA of the 2010 World Cup top scorer and Golden Ball winner.

“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.

“The new coach will begin working immediately with the under-20 team. There, he will lead a project aimed at developing young talent, supporting their growth, and strengthening their path to the senior national team.

“His first challenge at the helm of the senior national team will come during the September-October international window, when Uruguay plays its FIFA friendly matches. It will mark the beginning of a new era, with one of its greatest idols once again at the helm.

“Having scored 36 goals in 112 appearances for Uruguay, won the Copa America in 2011 and played a decisive role in the historic fourth-place finish in South Africa, Forlan understands the meaning of representing his country like few others.

“His return reaffirms the [association’s] identity, ambition and commitment to a project that combines training, experience, and a strong sense of belonging.”

Diego Forlan’s first game in charge will come against Japan on September 24, before facing South Korea four days later on September 28.