I know from experience that Marcelo Bielsa’s press conferences demand a high level of stamina
Marcelo Bielsa’s press conferences are known for their intensity and length. His introduction at Leeds United in 2018 lasted almost 80 minutes — so long that Bielsa even asked his English translator if he needed a break.
The Argentinian coach also has a habit of calling unexpected briefings during tense periods, often without revealing what he intends to discuss. That was the case last night in Uruguay, where cracks are showing in his tenure as national-team coach following a grim 5-1 defeat to the United States on Tuesday. The main question was whether he planned to resign.
He didn’t quit, but what followed was a gripping 105-minute exchange in which Bielsa was his usual self: animated, introspective, and harshly self-critical. Felipe Cardenas of The Athletic followed the entire event, making it nearly impossible to say whether Bielsa can turn Uruguay’s crisis around.
Uruguay qualified for next year’s World Cup without major difficulties, but Bielsa’s early aura after taking over in 2023 has faded. Results have worsened with a lack of goals and reports of dressing-room dissatisfaction. Some journalists in the country are even calling for his dismissal.
Internal tensions came to light in October when Luis Suarez — a forward dropped by Bielsa — criticised the culture under the 70-year-old coach. Uruguay’s current captain, Federico Valverde, publicly supported Suarez’s comments. Despite this, Bielsa insists he will stay and is focused on the World Cup in June. For now, the Uruguay Football Association seems willing to stand by him. But can Bielsa escape this difficult situation?
'I’m toxic. Don’t think I enjoy it'
During the 105-minute press conference in Montevideo, Bielsa — known for his intensity and emotional distance — did not attempt to avoid blame. Here are some of his most striking statements:
🗣️ “I’m a generator of tension. When I arrive, the environment becomes tense. That’s why I appear infrequently. I am shy, obsessive, I’m a robotic person. I don’t like clutter. Those are my flaws. I find it difficult to act free-spirited and friendly.”
🗣️ “I’m toxic. To associate yourself with me makes you worse off. Do you understand me? There are toxic types who only see the errors that they are correcting, who are demanding, who are never satisfied with anything. Don’t think I enjoy it. For me, it’s karma.”
🗣️ On Suarez’s criticism: “I never responded to each of the claims he gave, but I did talk about it internally with the players. All that passed. I don’t hold a grudge or seek revenge.”
The press conference included references to false teeth, Brad Pitt, tomatoes, garages, and tango singing. Reporters pushed back at him repeatedly. Felipe’s analysis highlights the intensity of the room and the scale of Bielsa’s challenge. Eighteen months ago, Uruguay appeared one of the most dangerous teams heading into a World Cup draw — now, they stand on shaky ground.
News Round-Up 🗞️
- Alejandro Dominguez, president of CONMEBOL, continues to push for the 2030 World Cup to feature 64 teams instead of 48. His campaign for expansion continues.
- Australia international and Manchester City forward Mary Fowler claims in her autobiography that she suffered racism at Montpellier, alleging she was given bananas instead of flowers upon leaving the club. Montpellier denies the allegations.
- Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis and CEO Andrea Chiavelli will stand trial in Italy over alleged false accounting, particularly involving Victor Osimhen’s £62.8m transfer from Lille in 2020. The club denies wrongdoing.
- Paramount+ has secured most Champions League rights in the UK and Ireland for 2027–2031. Sky Sports secured Europa League and Conference League rights. TNT Sports loses its broadcasting rights.
- Brentford midfielder Fabio Carvalho will miss the rest of the season after suffering an ACL injury requiring surgery.
- Chelsea’s Cole Palmer fractured his toe at home and will miss key matches against Barcelona and Arsenal.