Uruguay's World Cup campaign has been thrown into disarray after players reportedly revolted against manager Marcelo Bielsa just hours before a pivotal Group H clash with Spain. The South American side sit second in the group with two points from two matches, and qualification for the knockout stages could hinge on Saturday morning's fixture in Mexico.
According to GiveMeSport, a group of senior players including Federico Valverde, goalkeeper Sergio Rochet, Manuel Ugarte, and Rodrigo Bentancur confronted Bielsa in a meeting, expressing dissatisfaction with the intense training sessions that have led to injuries. The squad is said to be unhappy with the physical demands placed on them, which they believe have left them overworked ahead of the crucial match.
Discontent Brewing After Slow Start
Uruguay's tournament began with a disappointing 1-1 draw against Saudi Arabia, followed by a 2-2 stalemate with Cape Verde. These results have left them needing a positive result against Spain, the European champions, to keep their hopes of advancing alive. The reported revolt comes amid claims that Bielsa's training methods have run the players into the ground, with injuries picked up in preparation for the Spain game.
The Mirror has reached out for comment from the Uruguayan Football Association. Further updates will be provided as the story develops.
