Ugarte among Uruguay players who confronted Bielsa in revolt before Spain World Cup decider

Manchester United midfielder Manuel Ugarte has been caught up in a player revolt against Uruguay manager Marcelo Bielsa, with a group of senior internationals confronting their coach just hours before a decisive World Cup group-stage match against Spain.

According to GiveMeSport, Ugarte joined Federico Valverde, goalkeeper Rochet and Rodrigo Bentancur in calling Bielsa to a meeting, expressing frustration over gruelling training sessions that have resulted in injuries within the squad. The players reportedly pushed for tactical adjustments ahead of the Spain fixture, dissatisfied with both the physical toll of Bielsa’s methods and Uruguay’s underwhelming results at the tournament.

Bielsa responded by convening a team meeting of his own, rejecting any shift towards a more defensive approach against Spain and insisting Uruguay would continue with their existing tactical setup — a stance that risks further injuries, according to reports. El Espectador also reported that Bielsa accused the players of trying to force him out, linking the unrest to his decision to omit Luis Suarez and Nahitan Nandez from his squad. The 70-year-old coach also allegedly claimed to have played a significant role in developing several players’ careers, including Maxi Araujo and Sebastian Caceres.

The internal turmoil comes at the worst possible moment for La Celeste. Uruguay have collected just two points from their opening two Group H matches, held to a draw by Saudi Arabia before being held again by Cape Verde. A defeat to Spain would eliminate them from contention for the Round of 32. A draw would secure qualification only if Cape Verde and Saudi Arabia also draw in the parallel fixture; any other outcome in that game would leave Uruguay relying on the best eight third-place route.

Bielsa, speaking at a pre-match press conference, gave no indication of backing down. “We are approaching tomorrow’s match as a final,” he said. “One of the best ways to defend is to make sure the opponent has the ball for less time.” He also praised Spain coach Luis de la Fuente, describing the work he has achieved with the European champions as “unique” and “significant”.

For Ugarte, the episode adds an uncomfortable international subplot to what has already been a turbulent first season at Old Trafford. The Uruguayan joined United from Paris Saint-Germain last summer and will be hoping the situation with Bielsa does not overshadow his performances on the pitch as Uruguay fight for their World Cup survival.