Football United

After River’s goalless draw against San Lorenzo in Sunday's pre-season match Merlo announced his resignation, a decision that was forced after a feud between the River directors and club captain Marcelo Gallardo.

Former River and Argentine national team captain Daniel Passarella has replaced Merlo as River Plate’s manager and will be officially presented on Tuesday during a press conference that will be held at midday. The highly rated Argentine manager will make a return to the club after an absence of twelve years and will sign a one year contract.

River Plate president Jose Maria Aguilar has cut his Brazil holiday short and will attend the conference that is likely to reveal certain important issues facing the club, including news of possible incorporations for the new season.

In just over two weeks River Plate faces Bolivian side Oriente Petrolero in a vital two legged play-off that will decide whether the ‘Millionarios’ will qualify for the 2006 Copa Libertadores.

Source: goal.com