Football

Diego Forlan Names Star-Studded Uruguay Squad for Upcoming India Friendly

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Sep 5, 2026, 15:17 IST

Uruguay has unveiled a formidable squad featuring Federico Valverde and Darwin Nunez for their October 6 clash against India, marking the beginning of Diego Forlan's tenure as head coach of the national team.

Diego Forlan Names Star-Studded Uruguay Squad for Upcoming India Friendly

Uruguay has officially announced its squad for the upcoming international window, confirming a high-profile lineup for the highly anticipated friendly match against India on October 6. The roster, revealed on September 5, signals the start of a new era for the national side under the leadership of newly appointed head coach Diego Forlan, who has taken charge of both the senior team and the Under-20 squad following the departure of Marcelo Bielsa.

The squad selection reflects a blend of seasoned international experience and emerging talent, designed to test the team's depth across all positions. With the match set to take place in Kolkata, local fans will have a rare opportunity to witness some of the most recognizable names in world football competing on home soil.

A Star-Studded Lineup for the New Era

The midfield unit is headlined by Real Madrid standout Federico Valverde, who leads a robust group of playmakers including Rodrigo Bentancur, Lucas Torreira, and Giorgian de Arrascaeta. The attacking options are equally formidable, with Liverpool forward Darwin Nunez spearheading a forward line that also features Miguel Merentiel, Rodrigo Aguirre, Federico Vinas, Martín Satriano, and Alvaro Rodríguez.

Defensively, the team remains anchored by established figures such as Ronald Araujo and José María Gimenez. They are supported by a reliable defensive core including Nahitan Nandez, Guillermo Varela, Mathías Olivera, and Sebastián Cáceres. The goalkeeping duties will be contested by Santiago Mele, Cristopher Fiermarín, and Ignacio de Arruabarrena, ensuring a competitive environment as Forlan implements his tactical vision.

Forlan Returns to India as Head Coach

For the new head coach, the fixture holds a unique personal significance. A legendary figure in Uruguayan football, Forlan earned 112 caps for his country and famously won the 2010 FIFA World Cup Golden Ball. His illustrious club career included spells at Manchester United, Villarreal, Atlético Madrid, and Inter Milan. Notably, Forlan also has direct experience with Indian football, having previously played for Mumbai City FC in the Indian Super League.

As the Indian national team, managed by Khalid Jamil, prepares for the challenge, the focus remains on the tactical test posed by a world-class opponent. The match serves as a significant milestone for Indian football, providing a platform for the squad to test themselves against elite international competition. With the announcement of this star-studded squad, anticipation continues to build for the October 6 showdown in Kolkata.