Forlan Starts Uruguay Interim Role Without Injured Valverde
Diego Forlan will begin his spell as Uruguay’s interim head coach on a three-match Asian tour, but his first squad has been hit by the absence of Federico Valverde. The Real Madrid midfielder will remain in Spain after a serious ankle problem suffered in the derby against Atletico Madrid.
Uruguay’s medical staff followed Valverde’s condition until the final decision, with concern that long-distance flights could increase the swelling around the injury. Forlan said the priority was to avoid compromising the 28-year-old’s recovery for the sake of the friendlies.
Quick facts
- Diego Forlan takes charge of Uruguay for a three-game tour of Asia.
- Federico Valverde misses the trip because of an ankle injury sustained against Atletico Madrid.
- Palmeiras midfielder Emiliano Martinez has been called in as Valverde’s replacement.
- Uruguay face Japan on September 24, South Korea four days later, and India on October 6.
Forlan explained that Valverde was still experiencing discomfort after the Madrid derby. He said the possibility of additional swelling during travel meant Uruguay had to take a cautious approach.
“The doctor spoke to Fede and he is clearly still feeling discomfort,” Forlan said. “We understand the situation, and the injury may swell further, particularly with the journey.”
Emiliano Martinez will travel directly to join the group, taking the vacant place in central midfield. The Palmeiras player arrives as Forlan shapes a squad combining established internationals with players being given an opportunity to impress.
Goalkeeper Thiago Cardozo, defender Juan Rodriguez and midfielder Facundo Bernal have all received their first senior Uruguay call-ups. There are also recalls for Nahitan Nandez, Lucas Torreira and Barcelona centre-back Ronald Araujo.
The tour follows a disappointing 2026 World Cup campaign for La Celeste, and Forlan wants the friendlies to provide a platform for improvement. His focus will be on assessing the group’s collective level while demanding stronger tactical organisation.
Uruguay open against Japan at Q&A Stadium Miyagi in Rifu on Thursday, September 24. They then meet South Korea in Seoul on September 28 before ending the window against India in Kolkata on October 6.
Forlan’s interim prospects could be strengthened by positive results as Uruguay begin planning towards the 2028 Copa America and the 2030 World Cup. The former forward will seek an immediate winning start in Japan, even without one of the side’s leading midfielders.
