Buenos Aires – The Argentine football world is reeling from the departure of Marcelo Gallardo as head coach of River Plate, a move confirmed on Tuesday, February 24, 2026. After a hugely successful tenure, Gallardo will take charge of his final match against Banfield at the Monumental Stadium, marking the end of an era for the club and its devoted fanbase. The news, first reported by ysscores.com, has prompted an immediate search for his successor, with Eduardo Coudet emerging as a leading candidate.
Gallardo’s impact on River Plate is undeniable. He guided the team to numerous titles, including the Copa Libertadores in 2018, and instilled a winning mentality that resonated throughout the club. His departure leaves a void not only on the pitch but also in the hearts of the Millonarios, as River Plate supporters are known. The club has yet to release the full text of Gallardo’s message to the fans, but reports indicate it was a heartfelt farewell acknowledging the incredible journey shared with the River Plate community.
The Search for a Successor: Coudet Takes the Lead
River Plate’s leadership has moved swiftly to identify a replacement for Gallardo, and all signs point to Eduardo Coudet as the frontrunner. According to reports from Los Andes and La Página Millonaria, Coudet, currently managing Deportivo Alavés, has been in contact with River Plate officials. The 49-year-old Argentine coach is known for his tactical acumen and attacking style of play, qualities that align with River Plate’s traditional approach.
While Coudet is the leading name, River Plate’s board is reportedly considering other options. Olé reports that the club is evaluating a range of candidates to ensure they uncover the best fit to continue River Plate’s success.
Gallardo’s Farewell and the Road Ahead
Gallardo’s final match in charge will be a poignant occasion for River Plate fans. The game against Banfield is expected to be a sell-out, with supporters eager to bid farewell to the coach who brought them so much joy. The timing of his departure, ahead of the seventh round of matches, allows for a smooth transition as the club seeks a latest leader.
The decision for Gallardo to step down comes after a period of speculation regarding his future. While no specific reason has been publicly stated, it’s understood that Gallardo felt it was the right time to pursue new challenges. His legacy at River Plate will undoubtedly endure, and he will be remembered as one of the club’s greatest managers.
Beyond the Coaching Change: Transfer Rumors and Future Plans
The managerial change isn’t the only news surrounding River Plate. Reports suggest the club is also active in the transfer market. ysscores.com mentions potential interest in signing Núñez from Al Hilal, while Real Madrid is reportedly monitoring River Plate defender Lautaro Rivero. There’s competition from AC Milan for young striker Santino Andino.
These transfer activities indicate River Plate’s ambition to strengthen its squad and remain competitive both domestically and internationally. The club’s leadership is clearly focused on building a sustainable future, even in the wake of Gallardo’s departure. The coming weeks will be crucial as River Plate navigates this period of transition, both on and off the pitch.
The immediate focus, yet, remains on finding the right coach to lead the team forward. With Eduardo Coudet emerging as the clear favorite, River Plate fans will be hoping for a swift and successful appointment, ensuring the club continues to thrive in the years to come. The next official update regarding the coaching position is expected within the week, as the board finalizes its decision.
What are your thoughts on Gallardo’s departure and the potential appointment of Coudet? Share your opinions in the comments below and join the conversation.
Worth a look
