River Plate’s New Era Under Martin Demichelis
The club known as the Millionaire entered a new chapter with a fresh coach after a decade of stability under Marcelo Gallardo. Fans hoped the change would bring the first sign of real improvement since the departure of a legend who had guided the team to unprecedented success.
Martin Demichelis stepped into the role after spending years as a prominent figure in Argentine football, bringing a wealth of experience from top domestic and international competitions. His mission at River Plate was clear: fill the void left by Gallardo and steer a squad accustomed to winning back toward the highest levels of achievement. The transition was watched closely by supporters, players, and analysts who believed the club could rebound quickly if Demichelis could translate his ideas into results on the field.
River Plate’s 2023 calendar began with high expectations. The team officially debuted on January 28 in the opening round of the local league, facing Central Córdoba and securing a 2-0 victory in Santiago del Estero. The win created an immediate sense of optimism, signaling a fresh start under a manager known for resilience and strategic thinking. Early performances showed balance, with a steady defense and an efficient attack that kept opponents under pressure. Over the first eight league fixtures, in addition to two national cup matches, the statistics painted a picture of a side growing in confidence. A disciplined defensive line and clinical finishing contributed to a run of matches without defeat, underscoring the potential of the new setup to deliver consistent results.
As the club looked ahead to continental competition, anticipation grew for the Copa Libertadores and the Copa Argentina. The calendar suggested a challenging but rewarding path, with the team pursuing silverware and a renewed sense of identity. In the meantime, River Plate did not dismiss the importance of domestic pride, pursuing triumphs that would reaffirm the club’s status in Argentine football. A notable moment came when River advanced to the semi-finals of the 2020 edition of the Champions Trophy, a reminder of the squad’s ability to fight through tough fixtures and emerge with favorable outcomes. The upcoming Superclásico—one of the fiercest rivalries in world football—was set to carry extra significance, representing a potential official title and a test of Demichelis’s plans against a longstanding adversary.
Next, GOAL provides a detailed evaluation of each match led by Demichelis as River Plate continues this new chapter. The analysis examines tactical choices, player performances, and the overall trajectory of the team as it navigates a demanding schedule and seeks to translate early momentum into lasting success.