Uruguay reveals 2026 World Cup lineup
Coach Marco Bielsa presented a 26‑player squad that blends seasoned veterans with emerging talent, a move that underscores the nation's ambition to break out of its recent group‑stage exits.
Among the selected names is Fernando Muslera, the veteran goalkeeper who had announced his international retirement but was coaxed back into the fold, adding depth and experience to the defensive line.
The omission of Luis Suárez, Uruguay’s all‑time leading scorer, sparked the most discussion. After hanging up his national jersey in 2024, Suárez voiced disappointment and hinted at a possible return, yet Bielsa confirmed that the forward will not feature in the upcoming tournament, marking the first World Cup since 2010 without the striker.
Suárez’s club form at Inter Miami, where he has contributed six goals and four assists in seven appearances, was cited by analysts as evidence of his enduring quality, but the coach’s decision rested on tactical considerations and a desire to refresh the attack.
Uruguay find themselves in Group H alongside Spain, Saudi Arabia and Cape Verde, a draw that pits the South American side against European powerhouses and Asian opponents, raising expectations for a competitive campaign.
Ranked 17th in the latest FIFA standings, the squad is viewed as a blend of grit and flair, with Bielsa’s tactical imprint promising a high‑pressing, attacking style that could finally translate into a deeper run in the competition.