Marcelo Bielsa to Leave Uruguay After 2026 World Cup?

Marcelo Bielsa has strongly hinted he will step down as manager of the Uruguay national football team following the upcoming 2026 World Cup in North America.

Speaking at an event organized by the Uruguayan Football Association on Thursday, the Argentine tactician explicitly stated, "Our job ends with the World Cup."

While Bielsa did not provide further details, local media reports suggest he will not renew his contract once it expires at the end of the tournament, which runs from June 11 to July 19 across the US, Mexico, and Canada.

"It is a miracle in any professional’s sporting career to take part in the World Cup," Bielsa added. "I will be forever grateful to Uruguay for allowing me to enjoy a competition like this."

This will mark his third World Cup as a manager, having previously led his native Argentina in 2002 and Chile in 2014.

Bielsa took charge of 'La Celeste' in 2023 following a successful spell at Leeds United. He enjoyed an impressive start, guiding the team to a third-place finish at the 2024 Copa America. However, his tenure has recently been marred by internal friction. His relationship with the squad reportedly deteriorated following public criticism from Uruguay’s all-time top scorer, Luis Suarez.

On the pitch, Uruguay’s form has also been inconsistent, marked by a 5-1 defeat to the United States last November and recent draws against England and Algeria in March.

Uruguay will kick off their World Cup Group H campaign against Saudi Arabia on June 15, before facing Cape Verde and Spain.