Eduardo Coudet has stepped down as River Plate manager after the club’s elimination by Independiente Santa Fe in the Copa Sudamericana round of 16. Already under heavy scrutiny from supporters, the latest setback proved decisive, with the club president confirming that “Chacho wants to step aside.” Coudet had hinted earlier in August that he would not harm River if results failed to improve, and after the penalty shootout loss he avoided speaking publicly, instead meeting directors in the dressing room to communicate his decision.
His tenure, which began in March following Marcelo Gallardo’s second spell, was marked by painful defeats: a Superclásico loss to Boca Juniors, the Torneo Apertura final against Belgrano, elimination from the Copa Argentina by Aldosivi and a six‑match losing streak in AFA competitions, the worst in the club’s professional history. Fans again protested at the Monumental, demanding sweeping changes. River are expected to announce a new coach in the coming hours.