La Liga
The recent elimination triggered an earthquake in River Plate. After being knocked out by Racing and ending the year without titles, Marcelo Gallardo decided to accelerate a profound reconstruction that alters the squad's structure.
The Argentine coach will announce that Miguel Borja, Paulo Díaz, Enzo Pérez, Milton Casco, Pity Martínez, and Nacho Fernández will not continue in 2026, as reported by German García Grova.
River Plate understands that the sporting blow requires an immediate squad review. The lack of results in the final stretch of the year exposed the need for a turnover, and Gallardo does not want to wait for another semester to implement it.
River Plate redefines its squad for the new cycle
The decision involves key figures who marked important stages. Enzo Pérez, Milton Casco, Pity Martínez, and Nacho Fernández, all with contracts close to expiration, were present in the final of the Copa Libertadores against Boca Juniors in Madrid and symbolize a cycle coming to a close. Miguel Borja and Paulo Díaz, still under contract, are also not part of the future project.
River Plate aims to break inertia. The coach's intention is clear: no player will be considered "untouchable". El Muñeco aims to form a competitive, fresh group more in line with immediate challenges. Miguel Borja's situation has become symbolic. The Colombian forward has alternated between good streaks and long slumps, and his prominence faded in recent months. Paulo Díaz, a steady presence for years, lost ground and is viewed as a potential exit to balance the squad.
The future of the club legends
Enzo Pérez faces an inevitable conclusion to his chapter. His leadership remains relevant, but River Plate understands the need for a midfield with a different dynamic. Milton Casco, after a long journey, is in a final phase that could lead to retirement or a last step away from the club.
Pity Martínez, whose return sparked hope, could not maintain consistency due to physical issues. Nacho Fernández, a compass for the team in golden times, is also approaching the end of his contract with no prospects for extension.
Miguel Borja and Paulo Díaz lead the list of dispensable players
River Plate will announce the decision in the coming days. The intention is to organize the squad before the start of the January preseason. Players not part of the plan will be granted early leave and will not participate in the final training sessions of the year.
Gallardo has also outlined the profile of new signings. He seeks proven players capable of performing from the first minute with an immediate competitive mindset. Luciano Gondou emerges as an option to reinforce the attack, although the market has not yet presented many confirmed choices.
River Plate will work in December with a special plan. There will be a brief vacation period, but the return will be demanding. The goal is to enter the 2026 season with a solid foundation and without the uncertainty that marked the last months of the year.
Pity Martínez and Nacho Fernández, farewells signaling the end of an era
The departure of Pity Martínez and Nacho Fernández is emotionally significant. Both were key players under Gallardo's tenure and left their mark in different stages. However, the club recognizes that their continuity no longer aligns with current needs.
River Plate stands at a historic crossroads. The farewell of emblematic figures opens a scenario of total reconstruction. Gallardo accepts the challenge with conviction and self-criticism, convinced that the team needs a profound shakeup to regain competitiveness in 2026.
The Millionaires aim for an ambitious restart. With the departure of Miguel Borja, Paulo Díaz, Enzo Pérez, Milton Casco, Pity Martínez, and Nacho Fernández, a phase begins where renewal is not just an idea; it is a structural urgency to restore River Plate to the prominence demanded by its history.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, River quiere deshacerse de 6 jugadores: Gallardo pide sus salidas
