Rodrigo Bentancur

Bentancur has been named in Uruguay's World Cup squad and is expected to start in midfield under coach Marcelo Bielsa, arriving at the tournament after a disrupted season with Tottenham that nonetheless ended on a positive note with Premier League survival.

Analysis: Bentancur contributed one goal and one assist alongside 56 tackles and 35 interceptions across 26 Premier League appearances this season, delivering a consistent defensive midfield presence when available despite the injury absences that interrupted his campaign. His ability to win the ball, protect the backline and distribute intelligently from deep gives Uruguay a technically sound and physically capable option in the center of the park, and his partnership with Federico Valverde and Manuel Ugarte gives manager Marcelo Bielsa one of the more experienced and battle-hardened midfield units in the tournament. His form and fitness heading into the competition will be closely monitored given his recent injury history, but a fully fit Bentancur is one of the more reliable defensive midfield options available to any team at the World Cup this summer.

Apr 18, 2026

Starting during return

Bentancur (hamstring) is in the starting XI for Saturday's clash against Brighton.

Analysis: Bentancur has been handed an immediate return to the starting lineup after being cleared from injury and taking part in team training, with new manager Roberto De Zerbi showing enough faith to slot him straight back in despite his lengthy absence since Jan. 7. The midfielder had been a regular starter prior to the setback, having started 17 of his 20 appearances, and his return is a significant boost after a difficult stretch.