The Argentine Marcelo Gallardo, 50 years old, nicknamed "El Muñeco," was announced as the new coach of the Ecuadorian national football team. The announcement was made this Sunday by the Ecuadorian Football Federation. Gallardo will replace his compatriot Sebastián Beccacece, marking his first experience as coach of a national team.
The president of the Ecuadorian Football Federation, Francisco Egas, confirmed the hiring through a video message, stating: "We sought Marcelo Gallardo for his achievements, but, above all, for what he represents. Welcome to Ecuador, Marcelo." The new manager will have the mission to lead Ecuador in the qualifiers for the 2030 World Cup.
Gallardo arrives at a moment of reconstruction for Ecuadorian football after elimination in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup in North America, when the team lost to Mexico. The result was considered disappointing for a team that has been consolidating itself as one of the main powers in South American football in recent years.
In his career, Gallardo has accumulated 14 titles, being considered the most successful coach in the history of River Plate, the Argentine club through which he achieved most of his conquests. His experience and history of success were the main reasons that led the Ecuadorian Football Federation to choose him to manage the national team.
