Uruguay manager Marcelo Bielsa refuses to comply for photoshoot ahead of World Cup opener

Marcelo Bielsa says he is “not a model” after refusing to look at the camera in a promotional video that was broadcast on TV ahead of Uruguay's World Cup opener against Saudi Arabia.

The 70-year-old, who has never been one to shy away from making a point, could be seen looking at the floor instead of down the camera lens as he took part in an official World Cup photoshoot.

In the build-up to Monday's game against Saudi Arabia in Miami, Bielsa's actions went viral, with many questioning the apparent refusal to comply with the pre-tournament media duties.

A late goal from Maxi Araujo rescued a point for Uruguay on Monday as they began their Group H campaign with a far-from-convincing 1-1 draw against Saudi Arabia.

And after the full-time whistle, Bielsa was asked in his post-match press conference why he was looking downwards in the promotional video.

"I don't have to give any explanation, the picture was taken the way it was taken," he replied. "I'm not a model. I have no answer for that. Should I also explain why I don't look at those who are speaking now [in the news conference]?

"There are no explanations for me to give."

Marcelo Bielsa refused to do any acting during the official World Cup photoshoot.

The Uruguayan 🇺🇾 coach has repeatedly denounced the tournament in the United States, criticizing its commercial and political excesses.

pic.twitter.com/2ih09m0CXZ

— World Cup 2026 Daily (@TotalFootball) June 15, 2026

After being asked a different question at the press conference, Bielsa would return to his earlier point.

"I believe there's a limit in terms of what we need to explain," he said. "If I look up or down, there are so many things to be explained?

"Some situations do not need to be explained. We have no obligation to behave as models. Those things have no foundation. I did nothing wrong."

Marcelo Bielsa left frustrated by Uruguay performance against Saudi Arabia

It was hardly the most convincing display from Bielsa's men on Monday. Despite dominating in spells, they were 1-0 down at the break after Abdulelah Al-Amri found the net shortly before half-time.

Speaking about the performance, Bielsa said: "I think the fact we didn't win is linked to not being able to get the best version of ourselves. That's why we weren't able to win. We had everything to play in the first half like we did in the second half, but we only did it in half of the time.

"The game changed during the second half. More options, people were able to move, run off the ball and make situations."

He added: "It's part of what happens in games. Sometimes with few chances you score goals and sometimes with many chances you can't do it."