5 fantasisti who starred for River Plate

3. Marcelo Gallardo: ’92 – ‘99, ’03 – ’06, ’08 – ‘10: 214 apps 50 gls

– El Muñeco – the doll

Gallardo spent three playing periods at his beloved club, developing something of a yo-yo career. But it was during his first period with los Millonarios that he was most successful.

Yet another who was developed in the famed youth system, Gallardo made his first team debut in 1992 and was a fixture there until 1999, when he left for Europe. During an amazing 7-year period with River, he won 6 major titles including the 1996 Copa Libertadores. In that same period, the playmaker was voted either Young Player, or Player of the Year an incredible seven times.

Upon his return to the club in 2003, he captained the side and led them to yet another title in 2004, before leaving for France again in 2007. He then rejoined for his final spell as a player in 2009.

His golden touch with River continued in 2014 when he returned to coach the team to the Copa Sudamericana title; in doing so becoming the first River Plate figure to win continental trophies with the club as a player and manager. Things got even better just a season later when he led River to their third Copa Libertadores trophy, as well as the final in 2018 against arch-rivals Boca Juniors.

As a player, the club legend – who was given his nickname due to his small frame and baby-face appearance – was adored for his deadball expertise and passing, dictating matches from his central midfield role.

Gallardo fantasista

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