Marcelo Bielsa has suggested his tenure as Uruguay’s national coach will conclude with the 2026 World Cup, stating, “Our job ends with the World Cup” at a recent Uruguayan Football Association event. While Bielsa did not provide further details, local reports indicate the Argentine’s contract runs only through the June 11–July 19 tournament in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada.
Bielsa, who previously managed Argentina and Chile at the World Cup, called the chance to lead Uruguay “a miracle in any professional’s sporting career” and expressed gratitude for the experience. Since taking charge in 2023, Bielsa guided Uruguay through the CONMEBOL qualifiers and to a third-place finish at the 2024 Copa America. However, internal tensions and criticism from stars like Luis Suarez have reportedly strained his relationship with the squad.
Uruguay’s recent form has been mixed, with draws against England and Algeria and a heavy defeat to the U.S. last November. The team will begin their World Cup campaign on June 15 against Saudi Arabia, followed by matches with Cape Verde and Spain.
