Diego Forlan returns to Uruguay set-up as senior, under-20 head coach
Montevideo, August 7
Uruguay football legend Diego Forlan returns to the national set-up as the head coach of the senior national teams and the under-20 sides.
Forlan, who is best known for representing Uruguay from 2002-14 and clubs like Manchester United, Villarreal, Atletico Madrid and Inter Milan, is one of the most important figures of his country's football history. He comes to the setup after the team's group stage finish in the FIFA World Cup, where the two-time champions failed to win a match, marking their worst performance in the tournament's history.
A statement from the Uruguayan Football Association said, "The Uruguayan Football Association announces the return of Diego Forlan to the Uruguayan National Team. 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."
"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," the statement added.
Forlan represented Uruguay in 112 matches, scoring 36 goals and capturing the Copa America 2011 with them and playing a crucial role in their fourth-place finish in the 2010 FIFA World Cup with five goals.
Forlan 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. He will work with Santiago Espasandin and Diego Perez as assistant coaches, Marco Mansulino as physical trainer, Ignacio Bordad as goalkeeping coach, and Gabriel Skrilec as video analyst.
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.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Good move by the Uruguayan FA. Forlan is not just a great player but a respected figure worldwide. After that World Cup exit, they need someone who can rebuild and inspire. I appreciate that he's starting with the under-20 team—developing the next generation is key. Wishing him success!
I remember watching Forlan at Manchester United and then his golden period at Villarreal and Atletico Madrid. He was a true marksman with that powerful right foot. This appointment makes sense—he understands the Uruguayan football culture deeply. But coaching is a different ball game altogether. Let's see if he can translate his on-field intelligence into tactics. 🧠
Interesting appointment. Forlan has the pedigree and the respect of the players. The challenge will be balancing both roles—senior and under-20. It's a heavy workload, but if anyone can handle it, it's someone with his experience. The friendlies in September will be a good test for him.
Honestly, I'm a bit skeptical. Being a great player doesn't always make you a great coach. But Forlan is different—he was always a smart player, reading the game well. And starting with the under-20s is smart; he can learn the coaching ropes while shaping future stars. I'll be rooting for him!
Legend returns! That 2010 World Cup was something else—Forlan was unstoppable. Uruguay needed this fresh start after their shocking World Cup campaign. The under-20 project is crucial for Uruguay's future, and having someone
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