Marcelo Gallardo (foto: Getty Images)
Marcelo Gallardo reacted angrily after River Plate’s latest setback, confronting a journalist who questioned his standards and commitment.
Marcelo Gallardo is facing growing pressure at River Plate, as the Buenos Aires giants struggle to secure a direct place in next season’s Copa Libertadores, likely having to seek qualification through alternative routes.
Following the match against Vélez Sarsfield, Gallardo confronted journalist Jorge Manjín, who questioned whether the coach still applies the same standards he did during his previous spell at the club.
Gallardo’s response was immediate and emotional.
“Are you seriously asking me that? Do you think I don’t? Do you know me? I am responsible for how the team plays — I’ve never said anything else. But you will not come here and ask whether I demand enough from myself or try to plant doubt in me… I won’t allow that. I know how professional I am and how high the standards are that I set for myself and for this club,” Gallardo said angrily.
He continued in the same tone.
“I know what I demand from myself and from the club. That is not up for debate. If you want to analyse the results, fine — they are negative, I accept that. But that doesn’t mean I’m not worried or that I lack conviction in what I’m doing. I won’t allow that, because it goes against my profession. After that, you can say we’re terrible, that we can’t string two passes together, that the team is playing badly. All of that is fine — I accept it. Other things, absolutely not.”