Diego Forlan Considers Luis Suarez’s Return as Uruguay’s New Coach

Diego Forlan has officially begun his role as interim head coach of the Uruguay national team, tasked with rebuilding the squad after their underwhelming 2026 World Cup performance. During his press conference, Forlan expressed openness to potential roster adjustments, specifically mentioning his former teammate Luis Suarez, stating, “Why not?” regarding the possibility of Suarez rejoining the team.

Forlán will serve as interim manager until March 2027, preceding Uruguay’s football association presidential elections. His appointment follows Marcelo Bielsa’s resignation after Uruguay’s early exit from the World Cup, a tournament where Bielsa notably sidelined Suarez.

Forlán emphasized his confidence in Suarez during the press conference: “I have immense affection for Luis and a lot of confidence in him. If he is eligible for selection—he is Uruguayan—so being able to have a player like Luis with that experience… He has goals in him and keeps showing it every weekend he plays, why not? That will be seen further down the line. Nobody is going to debate who Luis is.”

Diego Forlan speaks during his presentation as interim coach of Uruguay. (Ernesto Ryan/Getty Images)

Suarez last appeared for Uruguay in a World Cup qualifier against Paraguay in September 2024. Before the 2026 tournament, he had suggested he would not rule out a return, stating, “I would never say no to the national team.” However, Bielsa ultimately excluded him from the World Cup roster.

Forlán reiterated his openness to Suarez’s return when reminded of the forward’s statements, saying, “Honestly, I didn’t know he had said that, but if he did, he is more than welcome.”

Suarez’s Strong Form Could Fuel International Comeback

Suarez has rediscovered form with Inter Miami under head coach Guillermo Hoyos, making 15 appearances in 2026 and scoring 10 goals with two assists. His efficiency in front of goal contrasts sharply with Uruguay’s current attackers, none of whom scored during the World Cup despite featuring prominently in Bielsa’s lineup.

Uruguay’s lack of proven goalscoring depth—relying on Darwin Nuñez, Federico Viñas, and Rodrigo Aguirre, who all failed to score in the tournament—makes Suarez’s potential return appealing. His recent performances at Inter Miami could address the team’s need for reliable attacking depth entering 2027.

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