Kudelka or Álvarez: who will lead Lepra from the dugout | OneFootball

Newell’s is going through critical hours as they work to appoint their new head coach before the Rosario derby. Although Lucas Bernardi was initially considered for the position, the current Reserve team coach is said to have declined the offer, requesting that a new coach take charge for the match against Rosario Central. Following this refusal, Roberto Sensini began formal negotiations with two candidates who are currently free agents: Frank Darío Kudelka and Gustavo Álvarez.

Kudelka Takes the Lead for the Coloso

The scales seem to be tipping towards a second spell for Frank Darío Kudelka. The Cordoban, who already managed the “Lepra” between 2019 and 2021, comes off a remarkable stint at Huracán, where he finished as runner-up in the 2025 Apertura. Kudelka has already made progress in financial negotiations and, unlike other candidates, is willing to take on the challenge of managing the derby this Sunday at 17:00.

On the other hand, Gustavo Álvarez appears as an alternative, though with a caveat: the former U de Chile coach would prefer to take over only after the clash against the “Canalla.” Álvarez arrives with the reputation of being a three-time champion in Chilean football, but his intention to delay his debut reduces his chances given the urgency of a Newell’s side that sits last in Zone A and has yet to secure a win.

Tension in Bella Vista and Confirmation of the Banderazo

The institutional climate is on high alert. After the defeat to Banfield and the Molotov cocktail attack on Facundo Guch’s vehicle, the Bella Vista training ground now has permanent police presence at the request of the players and management. The violent incident has forced the club to tighten security measures in the daily life of the professional squad.

Despite this hostile context, the traditional “banderazo” has been confirmed for this Thursday at 19:00 at the Coloso Marcelo Bielsa. Security agencies have confirmed that the stadium doors will open an hour earlier and a special control operation will be implemented to prevent incidents, aiming to ensure that the lead-up to the derby unfolds peacefully.

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