Ricardo Gareca proposes expanding Argentina's 'five big clubs' list

Ricardo Gareca, former coach of Vélez and former player for Boca Juniors and River Plate, has proposed expanding the traditional list of the ‘five big clubs’ in Argentine football. During an interview with ESPN, Gareca argued that the concept of the ‘five big clubs’—which historically includes Boca Juniors, River Plate, Independiente, Racing, and San Lorenzo—should be updated to include other institutions based on their sporting achievements.

Gareca specifically suggested that Vélez Sarsfield and Estudiantes de La Plata should be recognized alongside the traditional group to add hierarchy to the national game. He noted that while some clubs have larger fanbases, greatness should be determined by decades of sporting success rather than just popularity.

Estudiantes de La Plata has accumulated 19 official titles, including four Copa Libertadores and one Intercontinental Cup. Similarly, Vélez Sarsfield holds 19 titles, including its notable international success in 1994 with the Copa Libertadores and Intercontinental Cup.