Internal divisions and past conflicts have resurfaced at River Plate following the departure of manager Marcelo Gallardo. Reports suggest a fractured locker room, echoing previous disagreements between players and coaches, including a recent rift between Enzo Pérez and Martín Demichelis.
Following Marcelo Gallardo’s departure, reports emerged of a divided River Plate dressing room. Allegations of internal conflict, including a strained relationship between Enzo Pérez and Martín Demichelis, have surfaced. This adds to a history of internal issues within the club, with past disagreements involving players, and managers.
The reports of a fractured locker room, potentially contributing to the manager’s exit, have been met with denials. Marcos Acuña reportedly refuted the claims, stating, “I don’t understand why they keep installing so many lies,” according to reports.
Whether amplified or not, a factor in the manager’s resignation or simply a scapegoat for recent failures, the rumors add to a long list of internal conflicts at River Plate. A relatively recent example was the departure of Enzo Pérez at the end of 2023, amid a damaged relationship with Martín Demichelis.
The conflict began in August 2023 after Demichelis candidly shared his opinions on several key players with journalists. This was followed by a delayed apology from the manager to the squad. While some players attempted to rebuild trust in Demichelis, the relationship with Pérez appeared irreparable, leading to his eventual move to Estudiantes and a return a year later alongside Gallardo.
Earlier in 2012, a disagreement arose between Matías Almeyda and Fernando Cavenaghi. The manager prematurely informed reporters – rather than the players themselves – that he would not be renewing the contracts of Cavenaghi and Alejandro Domínguez. Cavenaghi would later return in 2014, winning three titles, including the 2015 Copa Libertadores.
In 2008, Diego Simeone controversially sidelined Ariel Ortega, even after a strong performance in the Clausura tournament. Simeone reportedly sent Ortega home before the final match, citing concerns about his condition. Without Ortega, River finished last in the subsequent Apertura tournament, beginning a six-semester stretch that ultimately led to relegation.
In January 2006, Gallardo and Carlos “Mostaza” Merlo were involved in a heated dispute that led to Merlo’s resignation. During a preseason training session, Gallardo overheard members of the coaching staff telling players to “place on a tired face when the reporters arrive.” Gallardo confronted Merlo, stating his disagreement with the project. Merlo resigned immediately, and Gallardo remained with River, albeit briefly.
Prior to the Merlo-Gallardo incident, in May 2005, River Plate was shaken by a highly unusual and sensitive conflict between Horacio Ameli and Eduardo Tuzzio, both starting center-backs and personal friends. The dispute stemmed from a marital issue, and the team fell apart as a result. While Tuzzio rebuilt his career, Ameli faced exile from Argentine football. Club officials lamented the situation, wishing the players could have resolved their personal issues privately.
In the mid-1990s, during Ramón Díaz’s tenure, several high-profile players publicly challenged the manager. Roberto Trotta famously refused to celebrate a goal against Newell’s in 1997 to express his dissatisfaction with Díaz’s limited playing time. Leonardo Astrada also reportedly confronted Díaz, using harsh language over concerns about a potential transfer.
Further back in 1981, a conflict between Norberto Alonso and manager Alfredo Di Stéfano led to a dressing room scandal. After recovering from an injury, Alonso was excluded from the second leg of the final against Ferro, despite being medically cleared. When Alonso went to collect his belongings, club staff were instructed not to allow him access. Fans at the stadium chanted in support of Alonso and against Di Stéfano.
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