River Plate readies squad as Otamendi returns early and Ramírez nears comeback

Defender Nicolás Otamendi, fresh from the 2026 World Cup final, declined a vacation to re‑join River Plate’s training camp under coach Eduardo Coudet. He offered to be available for the upcoming Torneo Clausura match against Barracas Central, hoping to earn a place in the squad.

Nineteen‑year‑old centre‑back Tobías Ramírez, who has only featured once for River, is advancing through rehabilitation after knee surgery. He has begun field work and expects medical clearance soon, a boost for a defence lacking the recently departed Pezzella and Paulo Díaz and still awaiting Otamendi’s full fitness.