Gallardo to stick or rotate River’s line-up v San Martín de San Juan | OneFootball

Despite the fact that the team played three matches in just seven days, the Muñeco is reassured by the fact that, after Sunday’s game, he will have two weeks of rest to prepare for the clash against Estudiantes and the crucial Copa Libertadores duel against Palmeiras.

The demanding schedule gives River Plate no respite. After playing three matches in seven days and securing qualification to the quarterfinals of the Copa Argentina, Marcelo Gallardo’s team is planning to rotate the squad for this Sunday’s match against San Martín de San Juan in the Clausura Tournament.

With only one day of training beforehand, the Muñeco will prioritize rest for his most experienced players. Enzo Pérez and Ignacio Fernández are not expected to be in the lineup, nor is Giuliano Galoppo, who has started three consecutive matches. Fullbacks Gonzalo Montiel and Marcos Acuña will also rest, as they will join the Argentina National Team next week.

The good news for Gallardo is the possible return of Fabricio Bustos, now recovered from the muscle injury suffered against Godoy Cruz. The fullback could replace Montiel. In central defense, Lautaro Rivero is expected to start, but it remains to be seen whether he will be partnered by Paulo Díaz—now physically recovered—or Lucas Martínez Quarta.

In midfield, the rotation will open up spots for Matías Galarza, Kevin Castaño, or Juan Cruz Meza, while Juan Carlos Portillo could get his chance after performing well as a center-back. In attack, Juan Fernando Quintero is shaping up to be one of the main options.

The forward line will also see changes. Sebastián Driussi and Maximiliano Salas may rest due to the heavy physical toll, which could lead Gallardo to once again rely on Facundo Colidio and Miguel Borja, the duo that worked well in the last match.

With the final stretch of the championship and the Copa Libertadores tie against Palmeiras on the horizon, the coaching staff is looking to avoid fatigue that could take its toll. So far in the Clausura, the Muñeco had only been able to rotate against Godoy Cruz, two matches ago.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.