The Ecuador National Team has begun a new era with a prominent figure in South American football at the helm. This Sunday, Marcelo Gallardo was officially announced as the new coach of La Tri, just a few days after it was revealed that the parties had reached an agreement. The Argentine will thus have his first experience coaching a national team.
The announcement was made by the Ecuadorian Football Federation (FEF) through its social media. "We have talent, structure, and ambition. We are ready. Let the people believe, because they have reason to believe. Welcome Marcelo", the organization published, in a clear reference to the phrase that Muñeco used during his successful stint at River.
Francisco Egas, president of the FEF, also highlighted the qualities of the newly appointed coach and explained the reasons that led the management to choose him. "He made demand a way of understanding football. The obsession to compete, improve, and not settle", he expressed.
The official also pointed out that the current generation of Ecuadorian footballers was decisive in betting on the Argentine and stated: "We have a generation that competes at the highest level, with talent, structure, and ambition. We believe this team is ready to take the leap. That’s why we sought out Marcelo Gallardo".
Among the names that make up this squad are William Pacho, Piero Hincapié, Moisés Caicedo, and Kendry Páez, a group that sparked the coach's interest in accepting the project. Initially, Gallardo is expected to maintain his residence in Argentina and travel to Ecuador when national team obligations require it.
