Ricardo Gareca will not be in charge of Velez next season

Velez Sarsfield are the latest Primera Division side left looking for a manager after Ricardo Gareca decided not to renew his contract after a successful 5 years in Liniers. With interest from elsewhere, including the Peru national side, there was always a distinct possibility that Gareca would not be staying at Velez.

General Manager, Christian Bassedas confirmed that Gareca has turned down the chance to continue, ending his spell that began in 2009.

Reports that Gareca would have had to sell more than buy in this window have emerged but in truth this rumour has been around for a long time. Whatever the motivation Gareca will not be short of offers and it is a blow to Velez.

Over the past 5 years, Gareca has proved himself one of the top managers in the continent with 3 league titles to his name.

Rumours of interest from both Paraguay and Peru, as well as Santos and River Plate go to show just how highly thought of Gareca is but after a tiring 5 years, perhaps some time off will be the first priority.

Velez are now seeking an adequate replacement with Hector Almandoz and Omar Asad top of that list. Almandoz has been reserve team coach and Asad is a Velez legend having spent his entire playing career at the club, winning 8 titles.

With the team due back on January 6th a new manager will be in place soon.