FIFA World Cup 2026 – Will Suarez play for Uruguay again? Former Barca, Liverpool star reveals

Uruguayan striker Luis Suarez has left the door open to an international return and said he would reverse his retirement if he is needed for this year’s World Cup. He may return to the national team after an absence of more than 19 months.

The 39-year-old retired from international football in September 2024 as Uruguay’s all-time top scorer with 69 goals in 143 appearances.

Suarez’s retirement was marked by controversy after he criticized coach Marcelo Bielsa’s management style, saying it divided the dressing room, although the former Barcelona forward said he has apologized for those comments.

“I would never say no to the national team if they need me, especially with the World Cup just around the corner,” Suarez told reporters. EFE news agency.

«At that time, I stepped aside to make way for the younger generation. I said something I shouldn’t have said. I have already apologized to those I needed to apologize to.»

Now joining Inter Miami from the Major Soccer League (MLS), Suarez said he still feels the urge to compete despite his age.

“You realize you still have a little bit of life left in you,” Suarez said.

«You get the urge to keep competing. You see it on the pitch when you still get angry about the losses and the bad passes, and you still enjoy it when you score goals.»

Suarez has represented Uruguay at four World Cups and was part of their Copa America-winning squad in 2011.

The 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by Canada, the United States and Mexico, starts on June 11.

Published on May 9, 2026