Image credits to Zawya

Introduction

Marcelo Bielsa has named his 26-man Uruguay squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, blending experienced talents like Darwin Núñez and Federico Valverde with young talents such as Manuel Ugarte.

Uruguay will enter the tournament with a deep squad capable of competing against the world’s strongest teams.

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Luis Suárez Absence

Shockingly, Uruguay’s all-time top scorer Luis Suárez was not included in the final squad, increasing criticism towards Bielsa among some supporters.

The decision drew attention because Suárez said in an interview three years ago:

“If I am called up to the Uruguay National Team, I would be grateful to play one last time in 2026.”

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Fans Divided Over Bielsa’s Decision

The decision has divided Uruguay fans.

Some supporters believe Suárez deserved a final World Cup as one of the country’s greatest-ever players, while others support Bielsa’s decision to focus on younger players.

Bielsa chose to prioritize younger players because Uruguay’s squad has relied heavily on veterans, with many people concerned about the future World Cups.

Goalkeepers (3)

• Sergio Rochet 
• Fernando Muslera 
• Santiago Mele

Defenders (8)

• Ronald Araujo 
• José María Giménez 
• Sebastián Cáceres 
• Mathías Olivera 
• Guillermo Varela 
• Santiago Bueno 
• Joaquín Piquerez 
• Matías Viña

Midfielders (12)

• Federico Valverde 
• Manuel Ugarte 
• Rodrigo Bentancur 
• Nicolás de la Cruz 
• Giorgian de Arrascaeta 
• Facundo Pellistri 
• Maximiliano Araújo 
• Agustín Canobbio 
• Brian Rodríguez 
• Rodrigo Zalazar 
• Juan Manuel Sanabria 
• Emiliano Martínez

Forwards (3)

• Darwin Núñez 
• Rodrigo Aguirre 
• Federico Viñas