Overview
- Bielsa confirmed his resignation in a 100-minute press conference on June 30 after Uruguay failed to advance from Group H at the 2026 World Cup.
- Uruguay finished the group with two points after draws with Saudi Arabia and Cape Verde and a 1-0 loss to Spain, eliminating the team at the group stage.
- The coach accepted personal responsibility, saying his management of squad resources was insufficient and that he could not justify the result.
- Bielsa defended his methods with match data, claiming Uruguay created far more dangerous situations than some opponents and deserved better outcomes.
- His departure closes a rebuild that began in May 2023 under an intense pressing and rotation system and leaves the AUF to pick a successor while players who gave effort now face an uncertain tactical reset.