Uruguay will begin the Diego Forlán era with international friendly matches against Japan and South Korea in September, with veteran striker Luis Suárez reportedly in line for a return to the national team.

Forlán’s senior-team debut is scheduled for September 24 against Japan in Miyagi, before Uruguay face South Korea four days later. Blueprint reports

The fixtures will mark Forlán’s first matches in charge of the senior Uruguay national team after he was appointed as the new head coach.

Suarez eyes Uruguay return

One of the biggest talking points surrounding Forlán’s first squad is the possible return of Suárez, who retired from international football in September 2024.

The 39-year-old Inter Miami forward could be included in the squad for the Asian tour, with Forlán having previously indicated that he would welcome the striker back into the national team.

Forlán has praised Suárez’s experience and continued goalscoring ability, suggesting that the veteran could still have a role to play for Uruguay.

Suárez remains Uruguay’s record international goalscorer, having scored 69 goals in 143 appearances before stepping away from international football.

Forlán begins new era

The appointment of Forlán represents a significant new chapter for Uruguay, with the former national team star returning to the setup in a coaching capacity.

His first senior international assignment will come against Japan on September 24, followed by the encounter with South Korea on September 28.

The preliminary squad list is expected to be submitted on September 6, meaning Suárez could feature among the players considered for the matches.

The friendlies will provide Forlán with an early opportunity to assess his squad, introduce his tactical ideas and begin preparations for the next phase of Uruguay’s international campaign.

Reunion with old rival

A possible appearance by Suárez against South Korea would add further intrigue to the September fixtures.

Suárez scored twice when Uruguay defeated South Korea 2-1 in the round of 16 at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, a match in which Forlán also played a key role for Uruguay.

Sixteen years later, the pair could return to the spotlight, this time with Forlán on the touchline and Suárez potentially leading Uruguay’s attack.

Forlán’s willingness to consider Suárez’s return has already generated significant interest, particularly as Uruguay continues its transition while retaining some of the experienced players who shaped its previous generation.

Asian tour set

The September fixtures against Japan and South Korea will form part of Uruguay’s Asian tour and are expected to attract considerable attention given the start of Forlán’s tenure and the possibility of Suárez returning to international football.

Forlán has made it clear that experience remains valuable to his plans, while Suárez’s continued scoring form at club level has kept the door open for a potential comeback.

If selected, Suárez’s return would come almost two years after his last appearance for Uruguay and could provide Forlán with both experience and attacking firepower as he begins his tenure.