Leeds United legend Marcelo Bielsa confirms summer decision after Uruguay World Cup campaign
The much-loved former Leeds United manger will first lead Uruguay to this summer's World Cup.
Leeds United legend Marcelo Bielsa has reportedly confirmed he will leave his role as Uruguay manager after this summer’s World Cup.
Bielsa marked three years as Uruguay boss earlier this month, having taken over in May 2023 as his first job after leaving Leeds the previous year. The iconic manager has created plenty of history with the South American nation including back-to-back wins over Brazil and Argentina for the first time since 1959.
Uruguay’s qualification for the World Cup means Bielsa will be involved in a third edition of the major tournament across a third different continent. He managed Argentina in the Japan 2002 World Cup before taking Chile to South Africa in 2010, where they made it into the knockout stages before elimination at the hands of Brazil.
This summer’s edition across the USA, Canada and Mexico now looks set to be Bielsa’s final swansong with Uruguay. According to national journalist German Gracia Grova on X, the former Leeds man said at a press conference: “Our work culminates with the World Cup. I thank Uruguay for allowing me to enjoy a World Cup.”
While Bielsa has made history with Uruguay and got them to the World Cup in relative comfort, he has come under significant pressure more recently. The Leeds hero has clashed publicly with some of the nation’s older and more famous players including former Liverpool striker Luis Suarez.
There were calls for Bielsa to be sacked following a 5-1 defeat to the USA in November but Bielsa, having called a press conference without explanation, went on to answer direct questions for over two hours. He then confirmed there had been no change to his plans and the goal was still panning for the World Cup.
Bielsa will hope to lead Uruguay through a somewhat favourable Group H this summer. The 1930 and 1950 champions will look to get off to a fast start against Saudi Arabia on June 15 before facing Cape Verde six days later. Their final group game is against Spain on June 27.