Former River Plate coach Gallardo has officially taken over as manager of Ecuador, with his term lasting until 2030.

The Ecuadorian Football Federation (FEF) announced on Monday the official appointment of 50-year-old Marcelo Gallardo as the national team coach. A four-year contract was signed, valid until the end of the 2030 World Cup.

Since stepping down as River Plate manager again in February, Gallardo has been unemployed. His appointment as Ecuador's manager, replacing Sebastián Becaceche, marks his return to the helm after seven months of unemployment.

According to local media outlet Ecuavisa, Gallardo's annual salary as Ecuador's coach is $3.5 million.

As an outstanding representative of Argentina's young generation of coaches, Gallardo left his mark on both Nacional and River Plate. He led Nacional to one Uruguayan Primera División title, and during his two stints coaching River Plate, he won two Copa Libertadores titles, one Copa Sudamericana title, three Copa Sudamericana titles, one Suruga Banca Cup title, one Argentine Primera División title, one Argentine League Cup title, three Argentine Cup titles, and two Argentine Super Cup titles.

Besides Nacional and River Plate, Gallardo also coached in Saudi Arabia from 2023 to 2024. He only managed Jeddah United for one season, during which time the team achieved a record of 15 wins, 4 draws, and 14 losses in all competitions.

Regarding the appointment, Ecuadorian Football Federation President Francisco Egas stated: "In football, there are always moments that change everything. At these moments, past achievements are no longer just a measure of how far we have come, but a basis for how far we can go. The real challenge begins here: to raise the standards again, achieve leaps, pursue higher goals, and usher in a new era."

“Marcelo Gallardo sees high standards as the cornerstone of his football philosophy – a relentless pursuit of competition and self-improvement, and a never-ending mentality. He is committed to building a team with conviction, always ready for big moments – a team that can not only win, but also look ahead to the next win the next day.”

“Ecuador has also been forging its own path. We have a generation of players in their prime. We have talent, a system, and ambition. We believe the national team is ready to make a qualitative leap, set higher standards for itself, and strive for greater achievements.”

"That's why we chose to invite Marcelo Gallardo to coach Ecuador: not only because of his past achievements, but also because of what he represents. We have the talent, the system, and the ambition. We are ready. We hope everyone will trust us, because they have every reason to. Welcome, Marcelo."

According to multiple sources, Gallardo will officially assume his post with his coaching team in the coming days. His first challenge will be leading the team on an Asian tour, during which Ecuador will face South Korea (September 24), Japan (October 1), and the winner between New Zealand and Panama (October 5).

After his Asian tour, Gallardo will shoulder two important responsibilities: leading Ecuador to qualify for the 2030 World Cup and shining brightly in the 2028 Copa America.

Image source: Internet/X