Emiliano Martinez called into Uruguay squad to replace injured Federico Valverde for Asia tour

Diego Forlan, on the first assignment of his tenure as Uruguay’s interim head coach, has named Palmeiras midfielder Emiliano Martinez to replace Federico Valverde in the squad for a forthcoming three-match friendly tour of Asia after Valverde suffered a serious ankle injury and will remain in Spain for treatment.

Forlan began his international duties with the announcement that Real Madrid midfielder Valverde cannot join La Celeste for the Asian trip following the ankle injury he sustained in the derby against Atletico Madrid. Medical staff monitored Valverde’s condition and, according to Forlan, decided against risking long-distance travel because the injury “could swell,” leaving the player unavailable. The manager also said the medical team spoke with Valverde until the last moment before making the call.

“The doctor spoke with Fede, and obviously he’s feeling some discomfort,” Forlan explained. “We understand the circumstances and have to understand that the injury could swell, especially with the travel.” The 47-year-old coach emphasised that the player’s longer-term health must take priority over immediate availability.

Forlan selected Emiliano Martinez as a direct replacement in central midfield; Martinez is identified in the squad as a Palmeiras midfielder. The call-up was confirmed in a team announcement that included the Spanish-language message: Federico Valverde es baja para esta Fecha FIFA por lesión, en su lugar fue convocado Emiliano Martínez 🔄 pic.twitter.com/83x8JgHHue

In assembling the roster, Forlan mixed younger prospects with experienced internationals as part of an attempt to regain momentum after what the report described as a dismal FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign. Three uncapped players—Facundo Bernal, Juan Rodriguez and Thiago Cardozo—received their first call-ups to the national team.

Senior figures who return to the squad include Nahitan Nandez, Lucas Torreira and FC Barcelona defender (now on loan at Liverpool) Ronald Araujo. Emiliano Martinez is travelling directly to join the group ahead of the matches.

Forlan has said he will use the three friendly matches in Asia to assess the team’s performance and to instil greater tactical discipline as he begins his spell in charge, with the squad proceeding to the planned three-match tour under his interim leadership.