22.11.2025 10:46
Galatasaray's star Torreira not being called up to the Uruguay National Team has sparked significant controversy. Following Torreira's criticisms regarding this situation, Uruguay's head coach Marcelo Bielsa made a statement. Bielsa explained the reasons for Torreira not being called up to the national team. However, after Bielsa's statements, Torreira shared a thank-you message on his social media account to former Uruguay head coach Oscar Washington Tabárez, which was interpreted as an indirect reference to Bielsa.
While the exclusion of Galatasaray's star midfielder Lucas Torreira from the Uruguay National Team has sparked significant debate, statements have come in succession from both sides. Torreira's criticisms were addressed by head coach Marcelo Bielsa, while the star player expressed his gratitude to former Uruguay coach Tabárez in a post following Bielsa's comments.
TORREIRA'S REACTION TO BIELSA: WE DESERVE TO WEAR THE NATIONAL JERSEY
Lucas Torreira, who was not called up to the Uruguay National Team, expressed his feelings in an interview with El Observador, indirectly sending a message to Bielsa:
"Uruguayan players must never lose the desire to go to the national team. We absolutely deserve to wear this jersey. We have the capacity to do much more." These statements received extensive coverage in the Uruguayan press.
BIELSA'S DETAILED RESPONSE: I SHARED THE SAME ENVIRONMENT WITH HIM BUT DID NOT CALL HIM AGAIN
Uruguay's head coach Marcelo Bielsa responded to Torreira's words at a press conference, explaining why he did not prefer the player: "I did everything I could for Torreira. I never stopped watching his matches. He is a very effective and important player. He is performing at a high level at Galatasaray. One day he called me and asked, 'Why aren't you including me in the squad?' I told him, 'You have the right to be called up,' and he came. I had the opportunity to see him up close. However, I did not call him again," he explained.
Bielsa also stated regarding his squad choices, "Torreira plays in the same position as Valverde and Bentancur. If I think that area is full, I don't need to call him. Torreira is not happy with my decision, but I have always respected him."
TORREIRA'S POST SEEMS TO BE A REFERENCE TO BIELSA
Following Bielsa's statements, Lucas Torreira shared an emotional thank-you message on his social media account for former Uruguay head coach Oscar Washington Tabárez. The post was interpreted as an indirect reference to Bielsa.
Torreira's message included, "Thank you for the dedication and passion you showed throughout all the years you devoted to our country. It was a privilege for me to be a part of your team. I am grateful for your belief in me and for helping me grow not just as an athlete but as a person."