Overview
- River opens the Torneo Apertura on Jan. 24 at Barracas Central after finishing preseason with a 0-0 draw and 4-2 win on penalties over Peñarol in Uruguay.
- After the Romaña deal collapsed, 20-year-old center back Ulises Giménez will remain at the club instead of going on loan as River leans on internal depth.
- Marcos Acuña has been ruled out of the debut due to a foot issue, and Franco Armani will be a late decision as he recovers from a right calf tear.
- Matías Viña is expected to start at left back, and Santiago Beltrán would take the gloves if Armani is not cleared, with the projected XI also featuring Montiel, Martínez Quarta, Rivero and Juan Fernando Quintero.
- In a club interview released on his 50th birthday, Gallardo acknowledged 2025 errors, thanked supporters for their backing and said he expects a better 2026; the club also shared a birthday tribute as images from his private celebration circulated.