Gallardo Signals Major Overhaul as River Plans End-of-Year Squad Clearout

Following River Plate’s group stage exit from the Club World Cup, manager Marcelo Gallardo is preparing a major squad reshuffle, according to TyC Sports. With several contracts expiring in December, the club is expected to undergo a significant overhaul heading into 2026.

Of the players whose deals expire this year, only Facundo Colidio is set to stay. The striker, a key part of Gallardo’s plans, has drawn interest from Germany’s Stuttgart, but River have been working on a contract extension for months and remain confident of his commitment.

Meanwhile, the futures of veterans like Enzo Pérez, Matías Kranevitter, Nacho Fernández, Manuel Lanzini, Matías Rojas, Pity Martínez, and Miguel Borja are all in doubt. Pérez could earn a renewal due to his influence on the field, but the rest appear likely to depart. Borja, in particular, is being pursued by Tigres UANL and may leave as a free agent unless a $4 million buyout is activated.

River have already parted ways with Franco Mastantuono, sold to Real Madrid for €45 million, and Federico Gattoni, whose loan from Sevilla has expired. Rodrigo Aliendro’s future remains unclear, though he has a conditional extension clause based on appearances.

Giuliano Galoppo, still struggling to cement a regular role, could return to São Paulo unless River exercise their $3 million purchase option. On the incoming side, Maximiliano Salas is close to signing, while Román Vega and Lucas Cepeda are also on the radar.

Gallardo is determined to reshape a squad that has underperformed and seeks to restore balance, clarity, and renewed ambition for 2026.