Marcelo Bielsa set to smash Wembley record despite difficult situation for Leeds United legend

Add as preferred source on Google

Leeds legend Marcelo Bielsa is set to make a return to England with his Uruguay side in March.

The Argentine will be present at Wembley early into 2026 after it was announced that England will play Uruguay and Ao Tanaka’s Japan in friendlies at the national stadium.

When that moment in March comes around, it will see Leeds favourite Marcelo Bielsa make a piece of Wembley history.

Marcelo Bielsa set to smash Bernd Stange record when Uruguay face England

As Jonny Cooper revealed for Opta, the South American will break a record held since 2009 when he arrives at Wembley.

Leeds United legend Marcelo Bielsa could be on the market after the World Cup. Is the time right for him to come back to Elland Road?

Comment

Like or Comment

Have your say Sign-in now for free

When Bielsa takes his Uruguay side to London, it will mark the longest time ever between two games against England at Wembley for an opposition manager – Bernd Stange currently holds the record with 25 years between his trips to the national stadium.

Bielsa last appeared at Wembley back in February 2000 with Argentina, a game which ended in a 0-0 draw.

Cooper posted on X (previously known as Twitter): “This match will be 26 years and 32 days since Marcelo Bielsa’s last game at Wembley (23 Feb 2000 with Argentina at the old Wembley), a new record between games there against England by an opposing manager: current record is 25 years by Bernd Stange (1984 – 2009).”

It is, however, a turbulent time for the 70-year-old, and he might not even be in charge of Uruguay when this friendly in March comes around.

Leeds United legend facing Uruguay mutiny ahead of 2026 World Cup

There is a chance the man born in Rosario is replaced before this friendly between England and Uruguay.

Uruguayan news outlet Sport 890 recently stated that senior players want Bielsa to leave his role in charge of the national team, and have made it known internally that they will refuse to play if he stays.

There has been internal upset at his decision to banish the legendary Luis Suarez from the side, after the Inter Miami striker criticised the Leeds icon for his management style.

It would be nice for Leeds fans who are planning to attend England vs Uruguay in March to catch a glimpse of Bielsa on a rare return to England, although the situation within his camp cannot be ignored.