News Focus
- Luis Suarez misses out despite hinting at a return from international retirement
- Manchester United’s Manuel Ugarte joins two other Premier League players in the squad
- Darwin Nunez selected despite not playing club football since February
- Uruguay will face Saudi Arabia, Cape Verde and Spain in Group H
- The tournament takes place in North America starting mid-June
Uruguay have announced their 26-man squad for the World Cup finals in North America. Manager Marcelo Bielsa has included Manchester United midfielder Manuel Ugarte in his selection. However, the coach has decided not to pick veteran striker Luis Suarez.
Suarez is 39 years old. The former Liverpool and Barcelona star had recently suggested he might reverse his retirement from international football. He stated he would return if the national team needed him after a 20-month absence. Despite this, Bielsa has looked to younger options for the attack.
Three players from the English Premier League will represent Uruguay. Ugarte is joined by Wolves defender Santiago Bueno and Tottenham midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur. All three are expected to play important roles in the midfield and defence.
Darwin Nunez has also made the cut. The former Liverpool forward has not played for his Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal since February. This happened because the club had to change its foreign player registrations after signing Karim Benzema. Even without recent match practice, Bielsa has kept faith with the striker.
Uruguay will compete in Group H. They begin their campaign against Saudi Arabia on 15 June. They will then play Cape Verde and Spain in their remaining group stage matches.
The squad includes experienced goalkeeper Fernando Muslera from Galatasaray. Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo and Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde provide further quality. Several players come from Brazilian club Flamengo, including playmaker Giorgian de Arrascaeta.