Franco Armani departs River Plate, returns to Atlético Nacional

Goalkeeper Franco Armani, 39, officially ended his eight‑and‑a‑half year spell with River Plate on 13 July 2026. In an emotional press conference at the Monumental he read a farewell letter, describing the tenure as “the biggest dream of my life” and recalling the 2018 Copa Libertadores triumph in Madrid. Armani highlighted his record of 366 official matches, 10 titles and a club‑record 965 minutes without conceding in the Argentine Primera.

He confirmed that he will resume his career with Colombian side Atlético Nacional, where he previously won the 2016 Libertadores. Club president Stefano Di Carlo presented him with a plaque and thanked him for his loyalty, while the emerging goalkeeper Santiago Beltrán was noted as his successor. The farewell was attended by former River legends and staff, and Armani thanked the fans, saying he will always carry River in his heart.