Franco Armani to leave River Plate for Atlético Nacional
Goalkeeper Franco Armani, 39, has agreed to terminate his contract with River Plate ahead of its 2026 expiry and will re‑join Atlético Nacional in Colombia, the club where he began his professional career and where he plans to retire. Armani spent eight seasons (2018‑2026) at the Argentine side, playing 366 official matches, winning ten titles—including the 2018 Copa Libertadores—and setting records such as 158 clean sheets and 965 minutes without conceding.
His playing time fell last semester after injuries and the emergence of 21‑year‑old Santiago Beltrán, prompting the mutual decision. River president Stefano Di Carlo said the club respects his right to choose his future and is preparing a special farewell match. The move also fulfills Armani’s earlier promise to finish his career at the Medellín club, where he previously won 13 trophies, including the 2016 Copa Libertadores.
Armani’s departure marks the end of a highly successful era for River’s goalkeeping department and adds a notable transfer to the Colombian league.