Marcelo Gallardo emerges as top candidate to coach Uruguay's national football team

Former River Plate manager Marcelo Gallardo, who departed the Argentine club months ago, is working as a pundit for ESPN during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Uruguay's football association (AUF) has entered talks with Gallardo to replace Marcelo Bielsa after the team's early World Cup exit.

Gallardo previously coached Uruguay's club Nacional and was approached for the national team role in 2021 before declining. Journalists note his successful record with River and his positive reputation in Uruguay, suggesting he could return to coaching in the medium term, possibly taking charge of the Uruguayan side.

The AUF confirmed that initial contacts with Gallardo were positive, and the former player‑turned‑coach remains a prominent figure in discussions about Uruguay's next head coach.