This piece forms part of the Guardian 2026 World Cup Experts Network, linking leading media outlets from all 48 qualified nations. theguardian.com publishes previews from three teams daily ahead of the tournament start on 11 June.

The plan

Marcelo Bielsa has stamped his clear style on the Uruguay squad. The 4-3-3 setup favors direct play, with constant high pressing and relentless ball pursuit. Attack never slows when Uruguay holds possession.

The three years under the ex-Leeds boss have brought mixed fortunes, covering World Cup qualifying that ended fourth among ten Conmebol sides and a third-place finish at the 2024 Copa America. Brilliant displays in late 2023 saw victories over Argentina and Brazil, yet a poor spell followed with just one win in twelve matches and nine scoreless draws from July 2024 to June 2025. A 5-1 loss to the United States in November raised doubts about Bielsa, though recent 1-1 and 0-0 results against England and Algeria helped restore confidence.

Uruguay lacks the proven goal threat of previous eras. Luis Suarez, the all-time leading scorer, fell out with Bielsa late in 2024 and stepped away, though he later indicated he would never refuse a call-up. Edinson Cavani retired after Qatar 2022, leaving Darwin Nunez as the main forward option despite inconsistent form at Al-Hilal.

Uruguayan FA president Ignacio Alonso set clear aims: top-ten status worldwide and a quarter-final berth. He also backed Bielsa, noting the coach remains focused and eager for a strong tournament as the payoff for years of study and planning.

The coach

After the heavy defeat to the US, Marcelo Bielsa faced heavy scrutiny. Back in Montevideo he held a press conference to confirm he would not step down, citing his resolve and acknowledging player questions over his approach.

In a candid ninety-minute session Bielsa reflected on his own flaws. He described himself as toxic, explaining that those close to him often suffer from his focus on errors and fear-driven mindset that overshadows the joy of victory.

This marks Bielsa third World Cup in charge after stints with Argentina in 2002 and Chile in 2010.

Star player

Federico Valverde. The Real Madrid captain reaches the tournament at his peak. At twenty-seven he ranks among the global elite and is emerging as the leader Uruguay needs to advance far. This is his second World Cup and his influence has grown markedly since 2022. All play flows through him, and he must excel against top midfields. He arrives after a disagreement with teammate Aurelien Tchouameni yet feels supported by fans and the club.

One to watch

Maximiliano Araujo began as a right-back yet earned his first overseas move to Puebla in Mexico through his wing play. Strong displays there led to Toluca and then Sporting in Europe, where he has reverted to right-back. Bielsa gambled on him in 2023, and Araujo has thrived by offering the one-on-one ability and overload threat the coach seeks from wide players.

Unsung hero

Federico Vinas. The Real Oviedo forward may gain opportunities if Nunez continues to struggle. Vinas story involves early sacrifice, quitting football at fifteen before returning two years later. He rose through Uruguay second division, moved to America as a low-cost signing, spent time at Club Leon, and has now helped Real Oviedo reach La Liga with nine goals this season.

Probable starting XI

What to expect from fans at games?

Uruguay group matches span the US and Mexico, drawing many sky-blue supporters to both nations. Travelers will meet long-term migrants, creating a reunion atmosphere. Around ten thousand fans are projected for US venues, a strong turnout from a nation of three million.

Relationship with the US/Trump?

Uruguay ruling left-leaning Frente Amplio party has condemned Donald Trump threats toward Cuba. The US president indicated in early May that the island could face swift takeover while expanding sanctions. The party warned that military talk endangers continental peace. Montevideo hosts South America only Trump Tower, finished in 2022.

Written by Luis Inzaurralde for El Observador.