Residency demand tests Marcelo Gallardo’s Ecuador appointment

Marcelo Gallardo is on the brink of taking charge of the Ecuador national team, with the Federación Ecuatoriana de Fútbol (FEF) reporting that a deal is near completion. The agreement covers economic terms, but the federation still requires the Muñeco to reside in Ecuador while he leads the Selección.

El Muñeco was the DT chosen by the Federación Ecuatoriana de Fútbol (FEF) to replace Sebastián Becaccece, who left La Tri after the Mundial 2026. Gallardo’s appointment would mark his first senior national‑team role after a long spell at River.

Residency condition remains

The federation insists that the Muñeco reside in Ecuador for the duration of his tenure. The preferred location is Quito, where the national training centres are based, though Guayaquil is mentioned as an alternative. This mirrors the arrangement that saw Becaccece live in Quito while leading the side.

Once in place, Gallardo will oversee the Eliminatorias for the 2030 Copa del Mundo, as well as the upcoming Copa América. The schedule also includes preparation for the Mundial 2030, giving the new coach a packed calendar.

Johanna Calderón reported in De Una SF that Gallardo and the Federación have already settled the economic terms of the contract. Only the residency clause remains DE to be finalised, and the federation said EN the next step is his relocation.

Gallardo’s overseas coaching record

Should the deal close, GALLARDO would gain his first experience as a national team manager. He previously coached abroad at Nacional and Al Ittihad, giving him exposure to Pro environments outside Argentina.

At Nacional he oversaw 39 matches, recording 23 wins, 7 draws and 9 defeats. He captured the Torneo Apertura and later secured the Campeonato Uruguayo 2011/2012 title.

His stint with Al Ittihad comprised 33 official games, yielding 15 victories, 4 draws and 14 losses. The club finished fifth in the Saudi Pro League, exited the Asian Champions League and the King's Cup at the hands of Al‑Hilal, lost the Saudi Super Cup final to the same opponent, and was knocked out by Al‑Ahly in the Club World Cup second round. Gallardo was dismissed En May 2024.

With River still benefiting from his tactical input, Gallardo is poised to translate his club success to the international stage. The coming months will test his ability to blend domestic talent with the demands of Eliminatorias, Copa América and the Mundo 2030.