Bielsa Denies Rift With Valverde Despite Position Switch
Bielsa denies conflict with Valverde despite moving the star midfielder to fullback and substituting him in Uruguay's World Cup loss to Spain, saying he respects the player and has discussed position flexibility with him.
Marcelo Bielsa, head coach of the Uruguay national team, has denied any personal conflict with Federico Valverde, despite moving the player to a fullback position. Uruguay's disappointing performance under Bielsa at the 2026 World Cup saw them eliminated from group play with just 2 points from 3 matches. One notable point of scrutiny has been the relationship between Bielsa and key player Valverde, particularly after he was substituted in the 60th minute during Uruguay's 0-1 loss to Spain. At a recent press conference, Bielsa addressed the issue: "I've never had a problem with Valverde, and I've never been as lenient with any other player because I believe he deserves it." "I believe substituting him in the 60th minute didn't put him at a disadvantage. I have always shown him great respect for his football style. If there are any disagreements, I would overlook their origins." "I told Valverde that I might use him as a left-back, and I mentioned the top five wingers he could stop. I told him I could play him as a winger or midfielder. He told me to use him in whatever position I need."