River Plate has appointed Marcelo Escudero as interim manager following the departure of Marcelo Gallardo. The team faces a crucial match against Independiente Rivadavia of Mendoza on Monday, March 2nd, as the club searches for a permanent replacement.

Interim Leadership and Upcoming Match

Escudero, currently the coach of River Plate’s reserve team, will lead the squad in their upcoming fixture. The club is aiming to build on positive aspects from their recent victory against Banfield, hoping to present a strong team to incoming manager Eduardo Coudet.

Coaching Candidates

According to reports, Eduardo Coudet, Hernán Crespo, and Santiago Solari are the frontrunners to seize over the managerial role. All three are former River Plate players and share a similar playing style to that of Gallardo.

Coudet the Favorite

Eduardo Coudet, currently managing Alavés in Spain, is considered the favorite for the position. He has a decade of experience managing various clubs across multiple countries, including Celta de Vigo, Rosario Central, and Atlético Mineiro.

Squad Updates and Potential Lineup

Escudero has promoted two youth players in his first practice session as interim coach, preparing them for potential roles under Coudet. Franco Armani is recovering from tendinitis, so Santiago Beltran will continue in goal. The potential lineup includes Montiel, Martínez Quarta, Rivero, and Acuña/González on defense; Moreno, Vera in midfield; and Galván, Driussi, Subiabre, and Freitas up front.

River Plate’s Immediate Schedule

The team will train on Sunday afternoon before departing for Mendoza by charter flight.

Probable Starting XI

Beltran; Montiel, Martínez Quarta, Rivero, Acuña / González; Moreno, Vera; Subiabre, Driussi, Galván; Freitas.

River Plate Training Session.