Argentine football has been shaken by confirmation that Marcelo Gallardo will step down as head coach of River Plate. The manager will take charge of his final match on Thursday at the Monumental Stadium against Banfield in the seventh round of the Torneo Apertura, bringing his second spell in charge to an end.
The news was confirmed by transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano on his official x handle and later formalised through an official video released by the club following Monday’s February 23, 2026 training session.
Fabrizio stated:
Marcelo Gallardo and River Plate part ways as the manager leaves his job from next week. It’s over.
Softfootball can confirm The decision follows a series of negative results that shaped the team’s recent trajectory. During his second stint, Gallardo was unable to replicate the success that defined his first era.
River suffered 13 defeats in their last 20 matches, a run that significantly weakened the sporting project and widened the gap between performances and expectations.
The most recent loss to Vélez Sarsfield in Liniers proved decisive. Inconsistent displays and mounting pressure led the coach to reflect on his future before ultimately choosing to step aside.
In the video message shared by River, an emotional Gallardo addressed supporters with visible difficulty, speaking in a trembling voice and pausing frequently.
He expressed gratitude to the institution and its fans, acknowledged the pain of failing to meet objectives, and praised the club’s support during challenging moments. He also voiced hope that River Plate will soon return to results befitting its stature.
Signs of his impending departure had emerged earlier. Following the defeat to Vélez, Gallardo personally greeted players, medical staff and club personnel a gesture widely interpreted as a farewell.
Thursday’s clash with Banfield will mark his final appearance on the River bench at a stadium that symbolises an era he once defined.
While this phase ended in difficulty, Gallardo’s broader legacy at River remains intact, securing his place among the most influential figures in South American football.
Elsewhere, Dick Advocaat has resigned as head coach of the Curaçao national football team with immediate effect. The 78-year-old will not lead Curaçao at the 2026 World Cup despite guiding the nation to a historic qualification.
In England, Manchester United F.C. secured a crucial 1–0 victory over Everton F.C. on matchday 27 of the Premier League to strengthen their Champions League ambitions. Under temporary manager Michael Carrick, United claimed maximum points thanks to a 71st-minute strike from Benjamin Šeško, who has maintained strong scoring form since Carrick’s appointment on January 13, 2026.