River: Marcelo Gallardo’s verdict on Juan Carlos Portillo’s performance | OneFootball

The break for the double round of South American Qualifiers comes at the perfect time for River. With two weeks of preparation ahead, Marcelo Gallardo will be able to try out different options in view of the decisive clashes against Palmeiras in the quarterfinals of the Copa Libertadores. For that tie, it’s not unreasonable to consider the inclusion of Juan Carlos Portillo, who is being evaluated as an alternative to partner Enzo Pérez in the midfield.

His performance as a central midfielder against San Martín de San Juan at the Monumental provided some certainties. First, his versatility allows him to cover both the back line and the midfield equally well, and second, wherever he plays, his physical presence and aggressiveness in recovering the ball are non-negotiable.

With energy and sacrifice, Portillo complemented Kevin Castaño very well and gave the Colombian more freedom to play with a bit more ease. Strong in one-on-ones (despite winning only 3 out of 9 ground duels) and in the air, he stood out much more in the defensive aspect than in the offensive.

And here’s where the first warning sign appears. Although he distributed the ball correctly—he completed 37 out of 42 passes (88%) and all four of his long balls reached their target (according to data provided by Sofascore)—the truth is that his play with the ball lacked impact. Many of his passes were lateral or somewhat imprecise.

This is why one of Gallardo’s first conclusions is that, if he uses him in midfield, it’s best to place him next to someone who can provide a more reliable and progressive first pass. In that sense, the Portillo-Enzo Pérez tandem is starting to take shape for what’s ahead.

The Millonario will have these two weeks of preparation before facing Estudiantes in La Plata next Saturday, for the eighth round of the Torneo Apertura. Just four days later, on Wednesday, September 17, comes the first leg of the quarterfinals against Palmeiras, the most important match of the year.

We’ll have to see if Muñeco uses the match against Pincha to fine-tune details ahead of the Copa Libertadores, and if so, whether he bets on giving Portillo playing time as a midfielder. Today, the spot next to captain Enzo Pérez belongs to Castaño, but his lack of impact in both boxes could see him lose his place to the Sicario, who at least has influence in his own area.

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