Bielsa Defends Suarez Snub, Says Uruguay Legend ‘Owes No Apology’

Uruguay head coach Marcelo Bielsa has insisted that Luis Suarez owes him no apology after omitting the veteran striker from his World Cup squad.

Suarez, Uruguay’s all-time leading scorer and now an Inter Miami forward, retired from international football in September 2024 but recently indicated he would consider a return if selected for the 2026 World Cup.

However, Bielsa overlooked the 39-year-old when naming his 26-man squad on Sunday, opting instead for alternative attacking options, including former Liverpool striker Darwin Núñez.

Addressing reporters before Uruguay’s departure for the tournament, Bielsa dismissed suggestions of lingering tensions with Suarez.

“Suarez said he was willing to contribute with a return to the national team, which I always understood as a valuable and sincere statement,” Bielsa said.

“In fact, I have no differences with Suarez.

“Luis Suarez does not owe me an apology.”

The Argentine tactician stressed that his selection decisions were based solely on footballing considerations.

“My choices are guided only by what I consider best for the team’s chances,” he added.

Relations between the pair came under scrutiny following Suarez’s retirement, when the striker publicly criticised Bielsa and accused him of poor treatment of players during the 2024 Copa America.

The controversy coincided with a difficult spell for Uruguay, including a heavy 5-1 friendly defeat to the United States last November.

Despite mounting pressure at the time, Bielsa retained his position and is now preparing to lead Uruguay at his third FIFA World Cup, having previously coached Argentina in 2002 and Chile in 2010.

Uruguay begin their Group H campaign against Saudi Arabia on 15 June. They will also face Spain and World Cup debutants Cape Verde in what promises to be a fiercely contested group.

المصدر: Leadership (Nigeria)