Marcelo Gallardo announces decision to leave River Plate | OneFootball

Marcelo Gallardo has announced he will step down as coach of River Plate when his contract expires in December.

Gallardo held an emotional press conference at Estadio Monumental on Thursday, during which the two-time Copa Libertadores winning coach thanked his team and the fans who have supported him during his time at the club.

“It’s one of the most difficult decisions of my life,” he said.

“Beyond the sadness, I have an inner peace that makes me feel good about myself. I’m very proud of the road I’ve travelled. We have experienced some great things over the years.

“The time we have dedicated all these years to our beloved club has been beautiful. But everything has an end. I think it’s time to close a beautiful and very valuable cycle.

“I want to thank the fans for every little tribute they have paid me. It will be an unforgettable memory for me. I want to thank them from the bottom of my heart.

“Sunday will be my last game at the Monumental. It has been a beautiful story.”

A former player for the club, Gallardo took over as River coach in 2014 and won 14 titles during his tenure, making him Los Millonarios most successful coach ever.