Former Manchester United attacker Diego Forlan is set to take over on a temporary basis as the new Uruguay boss after Marcelo Bielsa left the role following a sorry World Cup campaign.

The exit brings a chaotic end to Bielsa’s three-year tenure, which was clouded by reports of squad disharmony and structural tension. Facing a room of heavy media scrutiny, the 70-year-old manager refused to deflect the responsibility.

Uruguay coach Marcelo Bielsa said they are treating Friday's World Cup match against Spain as a final in order to get the win they need to be sure of a place in the round of 32.

Uruguay head coach Marcelo Bielsa finds himself under mounting pressure once again.

Scaloni’s comments came after Uruguay coach and former Argentina boss Marcelo Bielsa also criticised the breaks, arguing that they affect the cultural identity of football.

The colourful Bielsa -- nicknamed "El Loco" (mad man) -- was asked why he was looking downwards in the promotional video rather than straight into the lens.

The Inter Miami forward, Uruguay's all-time leading scorer, retired from international football in September 2024, but recently indicated he would be willing to return if selected.

Marcelo Bielsa is widely revered as a pioneer of coaching but his unconventional methods risk ruining Uruguay's World Cup chances before the tournament has even begun.

Bielsa said his side's commitment was unaffected in their shock 1-0 loss away at Peru on Saturday.

Uruguay coach Marcelo Bielsa on Friday defended his players involved in a clash with Colombian fans after Wednesday's Copa America semifinal, saying "anyone would have reacted like that" to protect their families.

Uruguay coach Marcelo Bielsa said his side had more talent in their ranks than Colombia and therefore he should be the one taking responsibility for Wednesday's Copa America semifinal defeat.

Uruguay's diligence and resilience under pressure after going a man down against Brazil in Saturday's Copa America quarterfinal victory put the team's distinctive character in the spotlight, coach Marcelo Bielsa said.

Marcelo Bielsa believes Uruguay have more to do to mark themselves out as one of the favourites to win the Copa America, despite crushing Bolivia 5-0 to make it two wins from two games.

Uruguay coach Marcelo Bielsa left veteran strikers Luis Suarez and Edinson Cavani out of his squad on Monday for their upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifying matches.

Uruguay have sufficient quality to allows them to dream of success, iconic new coach Marcelo Bielsa said on Wednesday as he was officially presented to the press.

"The fans are calling for games and emotions. The time has come," read a message on the team's official Twitter account, which also confirmed Bielsa's appointment