Ricardo Gareca Officially Dismissed as Chile Head Coach After Dismal Qualifying Run

Ricardo Gareca is no longer the head coach of Chile's national team, as confirmed on Friday following a meeting with Chilean FA president Pablo Milad. The Argentine's departure ends a 14-month tenure marked by disappointing results and growing internal dissatisfaction.

Chile currently sits at the bottom of the South American World Cup qualifying table with just 10 points and a -12 goal difference, five points behind the playoff spot with only four games remaining. The recent 1-0 loss to Paraguay and goalless draw against Ecuador sealed Gareca’s fate.

Beyond poor results, Gareca’s remarks in press conferences sparked controversy. He repeatedly distanced himself from blame, stating he "inherited" the situation and that Chile "hasn’t qualified for the last two World Cups anyway." His visible absence from domestic competitions, frequent trips to Argentina, and lack of training camps further fueled criticism.

To part ways with the coach, Chile’s FA faced a $1.35 million payout, though negotiations may have reduced the figure. Gareca’s official record includes one win, four draws, and six defeats in 11 competitive matches—a mere 21.2% success rate, making his spell one of the worst in Chilean football history.

While he recorded three wins in friendlies, they offered little comfort in the context of failed qualification hopes. The search for a new coach begins under heavy scrutiny and mounting pressure.