Frustrated Marcelo Bielsa explains why he refused to look at camera for World Cup photoshoot

Marcelo Bielsa insists ‘he’s not a model’ as he explained why he refused to look at the camera during a World Cup photoshoot.

A video showing the 70-year-old staring at the ground during his official World Cup photo has been spreading on social media.

And after Uruguay’s 1-1 draw with Saudi Arabia in their World Cup opener, Bielsa wasn’t in the mood to answer these questions.

He said: “I don’t have to give any explanation.

“The picture was taken the way it was taken. 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.”

The press conference moved on, but the former Leeds United boss hit out again later on.

He added: “I believe there’s a limit in terms of what we need to explain. 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.”

Bielsa’s side dominated their opening game, but they could not find a way to beat Saudi Arabia.

Uruguay had to come from behind after Abdulelah Al-Amri tapped the Middle East side in front just before half time.

But the South American giants snatched a point with a goal in the final ten minutes with Maximiliano Araujo scoring.

Shambolic start for Uruguay

Uruguay’s preparations for the World Cup weren’t ideal, with the team being left stranded outside of the USA.

The plane they were set to fly on to Miami didn’t have the clearance to leave to fly to the USA.

Instead of flying to Miami, the team had to remain in Cancun.

This saw Bielsa miss his pre-match press conference.

In the end, they set off jut under 24 hours before the match was due to start.

AFP

In a statement, FIFA said: “Due to an airline permitting error in Mexico, the Uruguay national team’s departure from Cancun to Miami was delayed.

“The airline has apologised for the inconvenience caused. FIFA remained in close contact with the Uruguay national team throughout their delay and worked alongside airport and operational partners to help expedite the process and minimise disruption to the team’s travel arrangements.”

Uruguay face Cape Verde next also in Miami after the minnows defied the odds against Spain.

The debutants sealed a hard-fought 0-0 draw against the European champions.

They threw everything in the way to stop La Roja opening the scoring, who threw on Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams in an attempt to find an opener.

But they couldn’t and Bielsa will know his team face a huge contest to try and beat the resolute African side.