The squad announced on Sunday combines the experience of Uruguay's established core with the intensity and dynamism that have become hallmarks of Bielsa's project. At the heart of it all stands Valverde, who arrives as the undisputed leader of the Celeste after another influential season at Real Madrid.

Alongside him, Uruguay will rely on a defensive backbone built around Ronald Araujo and Jose Gimenez, two players expected to play crucial roles if the South Americans are to mount a deep run.

There is also room for experience between the posts, with veteran goalkeeper Fernando Muslera earning another call-up, while attacking responsibility will largely fall on the shoulders of Darwin Nunez.

One of the most notable inclusions is Giorgian De Arrascaeta, who has recovered sufficiently from a recent injury setback to secure his place in the final squad.

Uruguay have been drawn into Group H, where they will face Spain, Cape Verde and Saudi Arabia in what promises to be one of the tournament's most intriguing groups.

Squad:

Goalkeepers: Sergio Rochet, Fernando Muslera and Santiago Mele

Defenders: Guillermo Varela, Ronald Araujo, Jose Gimenez, Santi Bueno, Sebastian Caceres, Mathias Olivera, Joaquin Piquerez and Matias Vina

Midfielders: Manuel Ugarte, Emiliano Martinez, Rodrigo Bentancur, Fede Valverde, Juan Sanabria, De Arrascaeta, Nicolas De La Cruz and Rodrigo Zalazar

Forwards: Rodrigo Aguirre, Fede Vinas, Darwin Nunez, Facundo Pellistri, Maximiliano Araujo, Agustin Canobbio and Brian Rodriguez

uruguay squad world cup 2026

S. Cáceres

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