Diego Forlan says Luis Suarez Uruguay could return under interim reign

In a packed press room in Montevideo, Diego Forlan stepped up to the podium, his eyes scanning the assembled journalists before announcing his new role as Uruguay's interim head coach. He closed his introductory remarks with a simple question that reverberated through the crowd: “Why not?” – a direct nod to the possibility of Luis Suarez returning to La Celeste.

Forlan’s appointment comes after Marcelo Bielsa resigned following Uruguay’s group‑stage exit from the 2026 World Cup, a campaign that left the nation searching for direction. The former Golden Ball winner now inherits the task of rebuilding a side that fell short of expectations, with his interim spell set to run until March 2027.

Interim tenure begins

Originally the Uruguay Under‑20 head coach, Forlan will step up as interim manager while the Uruguayan Football Association prepares for its upcoming presidential elections. The transition marks a shift from youth development to senior‑team stewardship, as he seeks to restore confidence after a disappointing World Cup.

Forlan and Suarez share a storied partnership, having led Uruguay to the 2010 World Cup semi‑finals, with Forlan winning the Golden Ball and Suarez delivering the infamous handball against Ghana. They also combined forces at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil and lifted the 2011 Copa América, the nation’s most recent major trophy.

Suarez’s potential return

Addressing roster questions, Forlan said, “I have enormous affection for Luis and a lot of confidence in him. If he is eligible for selection—he is Uruguayan—why not?” The coach’s open‑door stance underscores his belief that Suarez’s experience could benefit La Celeste.

Suarez, now 39, has rediscovered form with Inter Miami, registering 10 goals and two assists in 15 appearances across all competitions in 2026. His weekend displays have reminded observers of his enduring goal‑scoring instincts.

Uruguay’s forward line at the World Cup relied on Darwin Núñez, Federico Viñas and Rodrigo Aguirre, none of whom found the net, highlighting a clear need for proven firepower. Suarez’s club resurgence therefore presents a tempting option for the interim coach.

When reporters reminded Forlan of Suarez’s earlier willingness to return, the new boss affirmed, “Honestly, I didn’t know he had said that, but if he did, he is more than welcome.” The statement leaves the door wide open for a possible Suarez comeback.