The search for a successor to Marcelo Gallardo at River Plate is intensifying, with Deportivo Alavés manager Eduardo “Chacho” Coudet emerging as the leading candidate. Gallardo’s departure has created a sense of urgency at the Buenos Aires club, which is grappling with a recent downturn in form, having suffered 12 defeats in their last 20 matches.
Gallardo officially finalized his exit this week, bringing an end to a successful, yet recently troubled, second spell with River. The club is now focused on securing Coudet, who previously played for River Plate between 1999-2002 and again in 2003-2004. Contacts have already been made with Coudet’s agent, Cristian Bragarnik, and initial discussions have reportedly been positive.
While Coudet is currently under contract with Alavés until June, the Spanish club’s precarious position in LaLiga – currently 14th in the standings and battling relegation – could facilitate a move. Alavés are reportedly reluctant to let Coudet leave, particularly as they lack a release clause in his contract, meaning River Plate would likely need to negotiate a significant fee to secure his services.
Coudet himself has acknowledged the allure of returning to El Monumental. “It’s a pride,” Coudet stated, according to Infobae, when asked about the possibility of taking the River Plate job. However, he also appeared to downplay any immediate developments, offering a somewhat ironic response when questioned about the interest, as reported by Olé.
River Plate’s board recognizes the need for a manager with character and energy to revitalize the team. Coudet’s strong personality and past connection to the club make him an attractive option. His arrival would be seen as a signal of intent, demonstrating the club’s ambition to quickly address their recent struggles.
The timing of any potential move is complicated by River Plate’s upcoming fixture against Banfield on , which will serve as Gallardo’s farewell match. The club is eager to have a new manager in place as quickly as possible to begin rebuilding the squad and restoring its competitive edge.
Negotiations with Alavés are expected to be the most challenging aspect of the deal. The Spanish club are fighting for their survival in LaLiga and are unlikely to willingly release a manager who has guided them to relative stability. Diario AS reports that Alaves are unlikely to let him go without a significant fee.
River Plate are also considering alternative options, including Hernán Crespo, currently managing São Paulo, and Santiago Solari, Real Madrid’s Sporting Director. However, Coudet remains the primary target, and the club is prioritizing negotiations with Alavés in an attempt to bring him back to Buenos Aires.
Coudet’s tenure at Alavés began in December of the previous season, and he successfully steered the club away from the relegation zone. While recent results and the January departure of Carlos Vicente to Birmingham City have raised concerns about their current form, his overall impact at the club has been positive.
The situation highlights the interconnectedness of the global football landscape, with River Plate looking to LaLiga for a solution to their managerial vacancy. The outcome of the negotiations will have significant implications for both clubs, as they navigate their respective challenges in the coming months.
The departure of Gallardo marks the end of an era at River Plate. His second spell lasted 18 months, and the club now faces the task of finding a manager who can replicate his success and restore the team’s identity and intensity. Coudet represents a compelling option, but securing his services will require a concerted effort and a willingness to meet Alavés’ demands.
