The Uruguayan national team announced its squad list this Monday for the friendly matches against Mexico and the United States, in which the absence of Federico Valverde, Real Madrid midfielder, stands out, as well as the debut of defender Santiago Homenchenko, a player for Queretaro in Liga MX.

Coach Marcelo Bielsa surprised with a squad that blends experience and youth, and which will serve to continue fine-tuning the team ahead of the qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup.

Bielsa bets on new faces in Uruguay

Santiago Homenchenko, champion of the Under-20 World Cup in 2023, was called up to the senior national team for the first time. The 21-year-old defender is enjoying a great run of form with Queretaro in Mexican football and will join a squad that also includes players like Jose Maria Gimenez, Nahitan Nandez, Giorgian de Arrascaeta, and Rodrigo Bentancur. However, in addition to Valverde, Darwin Nunez, Nicolas de la Cruz, and Sergio Rochet, all regular starters for La Celeste, were also left out. Uruguay's Squad for the Friendlies Uruguay's Upcoming Matches The first friendly will be against Mexico at Estadio Corona in Torreon, while the second will be played at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida, against the United States. Bielsa will continue to explore different tactical options, aiming to strengthen a squad that seeks to return to global prominence.