Uruguay have named an experienced 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Real Madrid star Federico Valverde set to spearhead Marcelo Bielsa’s quest to bring La Celeste back to football’s biggest stage.
The two-time world champions head into the tournament hoping to end a decades-long wait for another global triumph, having last lifted the trophy in 1950. Since then, Uruguay have reached three semi-finals but have fallen short of returning to the summit of world football.
Bielsa has entrusted a blend of proven veterans and emerging talents as Uruguay prepare for a challenging Group J campaign against Spain, Saudi Arabia and World Cup debutants Cabo Verde.
At the heart of the squad is Valverde, whose energy, leadership and versatility make him one of the most influential players in Bielsa’s setup. The Real Madrid midfielder is expected to play a central role both on and off the pitch as Uruguay pursue a deep run in North America.
Manchester United midfielder Manuel Ugarte also features prominently after establishing himself as a key figure in the national team. Alongside experienced midfielders Rodrigo Bentancur, Nicolás de la Cruz and Giorgian de Arrascaeta, Uruguay possess one of the tournament’s most balanced midfield units.
In defence, captain José María Giménez will marshal a backline that includes Barcelona defender Ronald Araújo, Wolves centre-back Santiago Bueno and Napoli full-back Mathías Olivera. Giménez enters the tournament on the verge of reaching 100 international appearances and remains one of the squad’s most important leaders.
Uruguay’s attack will be led by Darwin Núñez, who arrives as the team’s primary goal threat. The forward is joined by Rodrigo Aguirre and Federico Viñas as Bielsa looks for the right attacking formula to unlock opposition defences.
The squad also contains exciting younger talents such as Facundo Pellistri, Maximiliano Araújo and Brian Rodríguez, offering pace and creativity in wide areas.
Uruguay begin their World Cup campaign against Saudi Arabia in Miami on June 15 before facing Cabo Verde six days later. Their toughest group-stage assignment comes on June 26 when they meet European champions Spain in Guadalajara, a match that could determine top spot in the group.
With a squad packed with experience, leadership and quality across the pitch, Uruguay will believe they have the tools to challenge some of the tournament favourites and revive memories of their historic World Cup successes.
