Uruguay World Cup 2026 Squad — Players, Manager & Group

Federico Valverde — Uruguay's best player and one of the best midfielders in the world

Federico Valverde is Uruguay's best player and one of the best midfielders in the world. The Real Madrid star brings energy, goals from midfield and the kind of all-round quality that can single-handedly change a game. Uruguay are built around getting the best from Valverde and giving him the freedom to express himself.

Luis Suarez left out — the end of an era

Luis Suarez has been left out. Bielsa made the ruthless call to leave the 39-year-old legend at home despite Suarez being fit and playing regularly for Inter Miami. It is the right decision for the team but it is a genuinely emotional moment for Uruguayan football — the end of an era. Darwin Nunez now leads the attack alone.

Fernando Muslera comes out of retirement at 38

Fernando Muslera came out of international retirement at 38 to be part of this squad. The goalkeeper has been recalled specifically for his experience and leadership. He will become Uruguay's most capped player at a World Cup if he plays. Sentiment plays a role but Bielsa would not pick him unless he believed it was the right call.

Group H is formidable — Uruguay must handle Spain carefully

Group H is formidable. Spain are one of the tournament favourites. Saudi Arabia are always motivated and organised. Cape Verde making their World Cup debut will be inspired. Uruguay need to handle Spain carefully and take maximum points from the other two games.

Manuel Ugarte — elite ball-winning midfield quality

Manuel Ugarte at 23 gives Uruguay defensive midfield quality that previously only existed in Bentancur or Valverde playing in a deeper role. The Manchester United midfielder is one of the best ball winners in Europe and his partnership with Valverde gives Uruguay a genuinely elite midfield combination.

Two-time World Cup winners — do not underestimate Uruguay

Uruguay have won the World Cup twice — in 1930 and 1950. They carry that history with enormous pride. This squad is good enough to make a serious run in the tournament and Bielsa is the kind of manager who gets the absolute maximum from his players. Do not underestimate them.

Who is in Uruguay's World Cup 2026 squad?

Full 26-man squad listed above including Federico Valverde, Ronald Araujo and Darwin Nunez.

Who is Uruguay's manager at World Cup 2026?

Marcelo Bielsa, the legendary Argentine manager.

What group are Uruguay in at World Cup 2026?

Group H with Spain, Saudi Arabia and Cape Verde.

When do Uruguay play their first World Cup game?

June 16 vs Saudi Arabia at Hard Rock Stadium, Miami.

Why is Luis Suarez not in Uruguay's World Cup squad?

Bielsa left him out to focus on younger players despite Suarez being fit.