Marcelo Bielsa has done it again, folks! The Uruguay national team manager has stirred up a proper storm by announcing a squad of only 17 players for upcoming international friendlies in Asia. This decision leaves out nearly all of his star players, sparking debate across Uruguay and beyond. What's Bielsa up to?
Why Only 17 Players?
According to the Uruguayan Football Association (AUF), Bielsa intends to use this October international window to test new players and give opportunities to younger talents with little to no senior experience. The matches against the Dominican Republic (October 10) and Uzbekistan (October 13) in Malaysia will serve as a testing ground for the Argentine coach’s next generation.
The absence of key figures like Federico Valverde, Rodrigo Bentancur, Darwin Núñez, and José María Giménez has raised eyebrows, especially after Uruguay finished fourth in South American qualifying, securing their spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Other notable omissions include goalkeepers Sergio Rochet and Santiago Mele, as well as defenders Ronald Araújo, Mathías Olivera, Nahitan Nández, and Joaquín Piquerez.
Who Made the Cut?
Here's a look at the 17 players Bielsa has selected:
- Goalkeepers: Franco Israel, Cristopher Fiermarín
- Defenders: José Luis Rodríguez, Santiago Bueno, Santiago Mouriño, Nicolás Marichal, Juan Manuel Sanabria, Marcelo Saracchi
- Midfielders: Nicolás Fonseca, Emiliano Martínez, Kevin Amaro, Ignacio Laquintana, Facundo Torres, Rodrigo Zalazar
- Forwards: Federico Viñas, Agustín Álvarez Martínez, Luciano Rodríguez
In true Bielsa fashion, 12 youth prospects will accompany the squad as sparring partners during training sessions in Asia. This is part of his trademark approach to fostering competition and development within the group. So, while the big names are missing, it's all about building for the future. What do you think of Bielsa's strategy? Let us know in the comments!
In a friendly match against the Dominican Republic, Uruguay showcased their dominance, holding 79% possession in the first 10 minutes. Despite the Dominican Republic's efforts to defend deeply, Uruguay's intense pressure nearly led to a goal. Ultimately, Uruguay secured a victory, marking the first-ever meeting between the two nations.