Club Atlético River Plate is considering disciplinary sanctions for players Kendry Páez and Matías Galarza following social media activity perceived as mocking the team's Copa Sudamericana elimination. Argentine journalist Germán García Grova reported on Thursday that the club's board is analyzing potential punishments for what was interpreted as a lack of respect.
The 'Millonarios' were knocked out of the continental tournament on the night of Wednesday, August 26, after losing a lengthy penalty shootout to Independiente Santa Fe. Hours later, Kendry Páez, who is currently training away from the main squad, posted an Instagram story with a black background and the 😬 emoji. Although he did not name the club, many fans and Argentine media saw it as an ironic reaction to the defeat. Páez deleted the story minutes later.
What did the sanctioned players post?
The situation for Kendry Páez escalated with a post from his father, Ray Páez. He shared a message saying "Time will tell" accompanied by several emojis, including two chickens, a symbol often used derogatorily against River Plate. Separately, Matías Galarza, also separated from the first team, posted a picture of the penalty he scored against Manuel Neuer while playing for Paraguay in the 2026 World Cup. The timing, right after River's penalty shootout exit, caused further discontent.
Germán García Grova was specific in his report. "The club is evaluating sanctions following the lack of respect from the footballers who are training apart with no clubs wanting them," the journalist wrote on his X account. So far, River Plate has not made any official announcement regarding concrete penalties. Everything remains under internal review.
What is the contractual status of those involved?
The contexts of Kendry Páez and Matías Galarza are different within the institution. Galarza is owned by River Plate and the club is trying to finalize a permanent transfer for him, which is why he already trains away from the manager's group. The senior squad, which you can view on our squad page, is preparing for the upcoming Liga Profesional fixtures.
Kendry Páez, on the other hand, is owned by England's Chelsea FC and arrived on loan at River. He is also not part of the sporting plans and his future is uncertain. Work is underway to find a new destination for the Ecuadorian midfielder, which will require an agreement with the English club. This instability adds to a challenging sporting moment, which includes an upcoming home match against Rosario Central, a game listed on the fixtures calendar.
What consequences could this sanction have?
A disciplinary measure would reinforce the internal message about expected codes of conduct, especially from players not integrated into the squad. River Plate is entering a key phase of the season where focus is essential. The team's position in the league standings demands immediate results to achieve its objectives.
Beyond the punishment, the episode highlights the difficult situation of two footballers waiting to define their careers. For Galarza, it means accelerating his departure. For Páez, it further complicates the search for a club where he can find playing time. The first team, meanwhile, continues its preparation with sights set on the Superclásico against Boca Juniors scheduled for October.
