Uruguay's World Cup exit triggers Bielsa departure and Ugarte injury crisis

Uruguay were eliminated in the group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a 1‑0 defeat to Spain, finishing third in Group H with two points. Coach Marcelo Bielsa held a final meeting with the squad in Playa del Carmen, ending with the line “Me voy triste porque me dejaron solo,” and his future with the team became uncertain, with former player Marcelo Gallardo mentioned as a possible successor.

Former striker Diego Forlán revealed that goalkeeper Fernando Muslera had played the match against Spain while suffering a fever of 40–41 °C, a factor he said contributed to the costly goal. Midfielder Manuel Ugarte suffered a severe knee‑ligament injury – later confirmed as a torn anterior cruciate ligament – during the Spain game, forcing him out for an extended period.

Ugarte’s injury also impacted Manchester United, who confirmed his absence and noted that the expected sale of the player to fund midfield signings would be jeopardised. United’s recruitment plans now focus on other targets such as West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes and Atalanta’s Ederson, while having to cope without Ugarte’s defensive midfield presence.