The victory over Universidad Católica served as a turning point for Millonario, providing a clear closing chapter to a week that had stirred much talk and speculation. The win was not just about a scoreline; it acted as a catalyst that redirected attention from internal chatter to on-field performance, allowing the club to press forward with renewed focus.
That week had been unusually unsettled for River Plate, especially in the context of its modern history. A so-called crisis had surfaced through multiple leaks in the press, prompting discussions about leadership within the squad and even rumors about potential changes in the personnel at the end of the season. The atmosphere was dense with questions and opinions, yet the team remained intent on staying grounded, trusting the process and the rhythm of daily training rather than reacting to every rumor that crossed social feeds or headlines.
In a postmatch interview conducted with ESPN following the win against Universidad Católica, the head coach delivered a measured response to the surrounding noise. He spoke with a calm certainty about his priorities and his role, making it clear that distractions from outside the club do not shape his day. The coach emphasized his commitment to the club and his sense of pride in leading River Plate, stating that his focus lies in waking up each day ready to contribute to the team’s success. He described his approach to daily work, noting that sessions begin early and are designed to push players physically and tactically, with the understanding that the squad responds positively to high demands and healthy competition across all age groups, from the veteran to the youth.
Further clarifying the club’s internal dynamics, he highlighted the prominent role of the experienced players within the squad. He pointed to the minutes distribution in recent matches, underscoring Armani’s lead among those who played the most, followed by Milton, Nacho, Enzo Díaz, and Enzo Pérez. The coach made clear that managing personalities is part of the job, but he trusts the quality and competitiveness of his players to maintain a cohesive dressing room. The message was direct: there are no big-name protections in place, only the drive and ability of those who contribute most—an approach that reinforces the club’s culture of merit and accountability. The objective remains to keep the group aligned and focused on sustained performance, not on external narratives or fleeting pressures.
The takeaway from the dialogue is simple yet powerful: River Plate intends to keep building through hard work, clear expectations, and a shared vision for the season ahead. The team’s leadership is comfortable with the reality that every session and every match is a step toward consistency, with players across the spectrum expected to bring competitive intensity to training and competition alike. By prioritizing a transparent environment and pragmatic leadership, the club signals its commitment to stability and progress, regardless of what headlines may suggest at any moment. The postmatch moment, like the triumph itself, stands as a testament to focus, resilience, and the forward march of the squad under a coach who believes deeply in the process and in the unity of the group.