Barca-linked Gallardo wants to stay at River Plate

Photo by Marcelo Endelli/Getty Images

The coach has sought to clarify his future

River Plate coach Marcelo Gallardo has said he wants to stay with his club amid speculation Barcelona are interested in his services.

There have been plenty of rumors this season that the 43-year-old could replace Ernesto Valverde in the Barca hotseat but Gallardo has no intention of leaving just yet.

“On 2 January, I will be here and I will start the pre-season, which may be in Uruguay, Buenos Aires on the south of the country. I am not interested in generating any kind of uncertainty. My wish is to continue with this team.

“I never had doubts about staying. Being here is hard with the requirements you put on yourself and what it means to be in charge of this club. That’s why you have to stop and reflect.

“Beyond my contract, which expires in December 2021, there is no clause. The leadership and I have a very cordial relationship.”

Source | AS

Valverde extended his contract in February until the end of the current season with the option for one more, although it’s not clear if he will stay on next year.

Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman has also been linked with the Barca job and refused to rule out a return to his former club when asked about the speculation recently.

Source: barcablaugranes.com