Marcelo Bielsa has announced Uruguay’s 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the return of veteran goalkeeper Fernando Muslera and the omission of all-time leading scorer Luis Suárez emerging as the headline decisions.
The squad combines experienced figures such as Federico Valverde, Ronald Araújo and José María Giménez with a core of players who have become central to Bielsa’s project during the qualification campaign.
However, the biggest talking point is undoubtedly the absence of Suárez, who misses out despite enjoying a productive season with Inter Miami.
Table of Contents
Uruguay’s Full 26-Man Squad
Goalkeepers
- Sergio Rochet
- Fernando Muslera
- Santiago Mele
Defenders
- Guillermo Varela
- Ronald Araújo
- José María Giménez
- Santiago Bueno
- Sebastián Cáceres
- Mathías Olivera
- Joaquín Piquerez
- Mathías Viña
Midfielders
- Federico Valverde
- Rodrigo Bentancur
- Manuel Ugarte
- Giorgian De Arrascaeta
- Nicolás De La Cruz
- Emiliano Martínez
- Agustín Canobbio
- Juan Manuel Sanabria
- Rodrigo Zalazar
- Facundo Pellistri
- Maximiliano Araújo
- Brian Rodríguez
Forwards
- Darwin Núñez
- Rodrigo Aguirre
- Federico Viñas
Muslera Returns For A Fifth World Cup
The most emotional selection is the return of Fernando Muslera.
The 39-year-old goalkeeper had stepped away from international football after the 2024 Copa América, but Bielsa has convinced him to return for one final World Cup campaign.
Muslera is now set to become the first Uruguayan player to appear in five World Cups, having previously represented La Celeste in 2010, 2014, 2018 and 2022.
His experience could prove invaluable in a squad that contains several players appearing at the tournament for the first time.
Muslera’s World Cup History
| Tournament | Result |
|---|---|
| 2010 | Fourth place |
| 2014 | Round of 16 |
| 2018 | Quarter-finals |
| 2022 | Group stage |
| 2026 | Qualified |
Luis Suárez Left Out Despite Strong Form
The biggest surprise is the omission of Luis Suárez.
Uruguay’s all-time leading scorer has six goals this season for Inter Miami and had been linked with a possible return to the national team ahead of the tournament.
Instead, Bielsa has decided to move forward without the 39-year-old striker.
Suárez retires from international football with 69 goals in 143 appearances, making him one of the greatest players in Uruguay’s history.
His absence underlines Bielsa’s willingness to make difficult decisions regardless of reputation or legacy.
Nández Also Misses The Cut
Nahitan Nández is another notable absentee.
The midfielder featured regularly during qualifying and many expected him to be included in the final squad.
Instead, Bielsa has opted for younger and more versatile options across midfield and wide areas.
His exclusion reinforces the manager’s commitment to selecting players he believes best fit his tactical approach.
Valverde And Araújo Lead Uruguay’s Hopes
With Suárez absent, responsibility falls on a new generation.
Federico Valverde arrives as Uruguay’s most influential player and one of the world’s leading midfielders after another strong season with Real Madrid.
Alongside him, Ronald Araújo, Manuel Ugarte, Rodrigo Bentancur and Darwin Núñez form the backbone of a squad capable of challenging deep into the tournament.
Key Players
| Player | Club | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Federico Valverde | Real Madrid | Midfield leader |
| Ronald Araújo | Barcelona | Defensive leader |
| Darwin Núñez | Liverpool | Main attacking threat |
| Manuel Ugarte | Manchester United | Defensive midfield anchor |
| Rodrigo Bentancur | Tottenham | Creative midfield presence |
Uruguay’s Group Stage Fixtures
Uruguay have been drawn in Group H alongside Spain, Saudi Arabia and Cape Verde.
Fixtures
| Date | Opponent |
|---|---|
| June 16 | Saudi Arabia |
| June 22 | Cape Verde |
| June 27 | Spain |
The clash against Spain is expected to decide top spot in the group and will be one of the standout matches of the opening phase of the tournament.
What Bielsa’s Selections Tell Us
The inclusion of Muslera and exclusion of Suárez perfectly captures Bielsa’s approach.
Experience is valued when it serves a specific purpose, but reputation alone guarantees nothing.
Uruguay will travel to North America with a squad built around intensity, athleticism and tactical discipline, while still retaining enough leadership to navigate the pressures of a World Cup.
Whether those decisions prove correct will become clear over the next month, but Bielsa has once again shown he is prepared to make bold calls in pursuit of success.
Read More: Rafael Leão Confirms AC Milan Exit: “I Feel Ready To Play In Another League”
FAQs
Why was Luis Suárez left out?
Bielsa chose younger attacking options despite Suárez’s strong club form.
Why is Muslera back in the squad?
The veteran goalkeeper has returned from international retirement for one final World Cup.
Who is Uruguay’s main striker?
Darwin Núñez will lead the attack.
Who is Uruguay’s captain?
Federico Valverde and Ronald Araújo are the squad’s senior leaders.
Which group is Uruguay in?
Group H alongside Spain, Saudi Arabia and Cape Verde.
