After an era spanning eight and a half years, the Doll no longer guides The Millionaire from the dugout, and his name is already echoing across European football circles.
December 31 marks the final day of Marcelo Gallardo’s tenure as River Plate’s head coach. Following a storied period that yielded 14 titles, the Argentine manager chose not to renew his contract, opening a fresh chapters that remains shrouded in uncertainty. His achievements in Núñez have elevated his profile on the continent, and interest from some of Europe’s top clubs has begun to crystallize. Yet such moves are not approached lightly, with careful consideration given to timing and long-term plan rather than any impulse decision.
The initial plan, according to insiders, is for Gallardo to take a six-month break after an era that felt nearly endless for River fans. Even with the World Cup impending and a flurry of managerial openings around the globe, the sense is that a new project should be built deliberately rather than rushed. Rumors will undoubtedly continue to swirl, and this page will keep tracking developments as they unfold.
LEEDS
Date: 02/09/2023
The historic English club recently parted ways with Jesse Marsch, who had taken over after Marcelo Bielsa and faced a difficult campaign trying to reverse a stagnant spell. Leeds United now seeks a steady hand capable of steering them away from the relegation dogfight that has dogged the team for more than a season. Reports indicate that the club’s hierarchy is actively weighing options and that Gallardo has emerged as a potential fit, while the coach has signaled he will take his time before replying to any proposal.
VILLARREAL
Date: 10/24/2022
In recent seasons, Villarreal has carved out a niche as a credible challenger within both Spanish football and the wider European stage, positioning itself as an appealing alternative to the league’s traditional giants. That backdrop was part of the reason Aston Villa pursued Unai Emery after the 2020-21 Europa League triumph, while other clubs considered Gallardo as a possible option. If Villarreal ever soft-landed an approach, the decision would hinge on a careful evaluation of fits, tactics, and long-term ambitions for the squad and project beyond the immediate season.
Source: Goal