Severe Crisis Hits Uruguay Camp Before Facing Spain in the World Cup

Press reports have revealed rising tension within the Uruguay national team camp, just hours before the anticipated match against Spain, in the third and final round of the group stage of the 2026 World Cup.

According to reports, Fede Valverde and several national team players held a meeting with coach Marcelo Bielsa, during which they expressed their dissatisfaction with the training methods and tactical plans employed by the coaching staff.

The players noted that the training sessions are characterized by high physical intensity, considering it a direct cause of injuries to several players. They also called for adopting a low defensive style against the Spanish team and focusing on counter-attacks.

The reports added that Bielsa gathered the national team players afterward in a meeting that lasted about 48 minutes, during which he spoke while looking at the ground. He accused some players of trying to oust him twice, asserting that he was the one who contributed to the development of several of their careers.

The coach emphasized his commitment to his plan, stating that Uruguay will face Spain with a man-marking style all over the field. He also revealed that he called up some injured players to the World Cup squad due to their loyalty to him.

These developments come at a critical time, as Spain leads the group with 4 points, while Uruguay is in second place with 2 points, tied with Cape Verde. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia is at the bottom of the standings with one point, making the final round decisive in the battle for qualification to the Round of 32.