River is Disorganized and Unsettled: Lost Its Identity and the Number 10

River is Disorganized and Unsettled: Lost Its Identity and the Number 10

In recent weeks, River Plate has suffered consecutive defeats against Aldosivi, Barracas Central, and Gimnasia. Beyond the immediate results, the club has lost something more significant: its identity. For a long time, River was known for its distinctive football style that became an integral part of its institutional brand. However, instead of using this identity as a guiding principle for recovery, it seems to have been forgotten.

The Lack of a Number 10 and Collective Play

River is missing a player who can lead the team's play and inspire others. Currently, there are no players in the latter stages of their careers or those capable of playing 20-30 minutes per game. This absence has led to a lack of direction in the team’s style, which traditionally focused on intensity over strategy.

Poor Transfer Decisions and Lack of Privacy

The club's transfer policy has been marked by repeated mistakes and overspending. Despite paying high salaries for players who often fail to justify their cost, River continues to make questionable signings. The club also lost the privacy and discretion that were once hallmarks. Recent public disputes with players have exposed internal conflicts and created a sense of division within the team.

Technical Director's Acknowledgment

Technical director Gustavo Coudet has acknowledged the need for three or four more signings to improve the squad. However, the club’s transfer policy over the past two years has been criticized for being ineffective in acquiring quality players. The decision to marginalize several players and expose them publicly was seen as an attempt to appease those demanding change rather than addressing the underlying issues.

Financial and Strategic Issues

River's financial strategy under president Stefano Di Carlo has also come under scrutiny. Attempts to reduce payroll by marginalizing certain players backfired, leaving Coudet with fewer options on the field. The club now faces the challenge of balancing its budget while maintaining a competitive team. The recent decision to allow loan deals for some players and split their salaries highlights the club's financial struggles.

Conclusion

River Plate is currently in disarray, lacking direction both on and off the pitch. To regain its former glory, it needs a leader who can bring stability and clarity. For now, Coudet’s approach seems to be exacerbating the problems rather than solving them. The club must address these issues quickly if it hopes to turn things around.