Former Manchester United striker Diego Forlan has agreed to take on the role of interim head coach for the Uruguay national team.

Forlan steps in for Marcelo Bielsa, who stepped down after Uruguay did not qualify from the group stage at the World Cup.

Advertisement

The 47-year-old will lead the national team during friendlies this autumn, while a permanent manager will be appointed at the end of this year or early 2027.

In addition to his role with the senior team, Forlan has also been named coach of Uruguay’s Under-20 team.

Ex-Leeds United boss Bielsa took over as Uruguay’s coach in May 2023 but managed to win only 15 of his 39 matches. Following the team’s early exit from the World Cup, the 70-year-old Argentine stated that his tenure “left nothing behind”.

Forlan, who scored 36 goals in 112 appearances for Uruguay, won the Golden Ball as the team reached the semi-finals at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

Advertisement

He announced his retirement from international football in March 2015.

Forlan concluded his playing career in 2018, having represented 10 clubs, with significant stints at Spanish clubs Villarreal and Atletico Madrid.

His coaching experience includes brief tenures with Uruguayan clubs Penarol and Atenas.