River Plate squad and management planning

River Plate is engaged in extensive planning for its 2027 cycle, focusing on coaching leadership and squad restructuring. President Stefano Di Carlo is reportedly considering Palmeiras manager Abel Ferreira for the head coaching position, though Ferreira’s existing contract presents negotiation challenges.

To strengthen the roster, the club has identified central defense, midfield, and goalkeeping as priority areas. Potential targets include Francisco Álvarez for defense, Franco Ibarra for midfield, and Yassine Bounou for the goalkeeper position. To fund these acquisitions, the club is considering player sales. Specifically, the club is evaluating the potential departure of central defender Lucas Martínez Quarta following inconsistent performances, and goalkeeper Santiago Beltrán, who has attracted interest from European clubs. The club is reportedly working to increase Beltrán’s release clause from 25 million to 100 million dollars to protect its assets. Additionally, youth player Lautaro Rivero is reportedly a target for Bologna, which could provide a significant transfer opportunity.

Regarding midfield stability, the club is evaluating options for 2027 after spending approximately 52 million dollars on eight central midfielders since 2023. President Di Carlo has indicated intentions to strengthen two to three specific positions to address difficulties caused by injuries to Aníbal Moreno and the potential departure of Fausto Vera. Potential candidates include Juan Nardoni from Grêmio and Guido Rodríguez from Valencia, though the latter faces difficulties due to a contract extension through 2028. Additionally, Cristian Jaime is scheduled to return to the squad in 2027 following a loan at Peñarol.

On the technical side, Leonardo Ponzio has assumed coaching duties following a period under Eduardo Coudet, leading the team from 14th to 4th place in the Clausura standings to secure playoff positioning.