River Plate signs Leonardo Ponzio to contract until 2027

River Plate has officially signed Leonardo Ponzio to a contract running until August 31, 2027. While Ponzio initially assumed the role of interim manager following the departure of Eduardo Coudet, the long-term contract is a procedural necessity to comply with Argentine Football Association (AFA) regulations. These rules mandate that an interim coach cannot manage more than two matches without a registered contract and that all coaching contracts must have a minimum duration of one year.

Ponzio has secured the support of the club's board, led by President Stefano Di Carlo, following a successful start where he achieved three wins in three matches. Under his leadership, the team has scored eight goals and currently sits seventh in the Torneo Clausura. The primary objective for the club remains securing qualification for the Copa Libertadores.

In separate club news, River Plate is reportedly in negotiations to extend the contract of 21-year-old goalkeeper Santiago Beltrán through 2029, potentially including a record-breaking 100 million euro release clause.