Buenos Aires, Feb 23 (NA) – Coach Marcelo Gallardo announced this Monday his resignation as River Plate's manager. The club's board must begin evaluating possible replacements as soon as possible, facing the remainder of the Apertura Tournament and the upcoming Copa Sudamericana. According to the Argentine News Agency, the 'Millionaire's' board of directors could opt for several paths to find a successor for the most winning coach in the club's history, whose second cycle was forgettable. One possibility is to go for Hernán Crespo, currently managing São Paulo in Brazil. He also stood out in his role when he lifted the Copa Sudamericana trophy in 2020 with Defensa y Justicia. In the same vein, Eduardo 'Chacho' Coudet could be another candidate pointed out by president Stefano Di Carlo and other board members, although his departure might be more complex. However, the historic 'albiceleste' striker's connection with the Núñez-based club could accelerate his exit from the São Paulo squad, making him one of the main candidates. The coach is currently managing Alavés in Spain and did not come from River Plate's youth ranks, but he became identified with the club during his playing days. His offensive tactical approach and the title Racing won in 2019 under his leadership profile him as a favorite candidate for the position. On the other hand, there are two coaches who preach the kind of football that River fans love and who are currently unemployed. Ariel Holan, champion with Independiente in 2017 and with recent good performance at Rosario Central, would be a great bet for the 'Millionario's' management. Similarly, Gabriel Milito led one of the best offensive teams in recent Argentine football history when he coached Argentinos Juniors, so the former central defender would fit perfectly with the 'Banda's' profile. Lastly, Pablo Aimar and Diego Placente could be a surprising appointment for River's coach due to their good performance in Argentina's youth divisions, but the solid project with the 'Albiceleste' and the 2026 World Cup around the corner would make both cases very complicated. Gallardo will end his second cycle with the River Plate squad next Thursday at 7:30 PM at the Monumental stadium, when they host Banfield for the seventh round of the Apertura Tournament. Although Marcelo 'Pichi' Escudero will take the vacant position on an interim basis, the 'Millo's' board of directors must urgently find a fixed replacement due to the demanding calendar and the need for good results.
