Managerial changes in Argentina are hardly a rarity but the sudden announcement of Matías Almeyda’s resignation as Banfield boss is something of a surprise. The 41-year-old currently has Banfield sitting comfortably in thirteenth but will take charge against Arsenal this evening for the last time.

There had been some murmurs of Almeyda’s frustrations at Banfield but the confirmation that the former River Plate manager would be resigning arrived last night. The visit of Arsenal to the Estadio Florencio Solá on Monday night will be his final game in charge and supposedly after the match Almeyda will explain his decision.

It is understood that Almeyda’s relationship with the board has gradually deteriorated since his appointment a little over two years ago. Banfield have often been praised for their style but all too regularly results have been lacking.

What is a little strange is that only some months ago when Independiente were in search of a new manager, El Rojo approached Banfield to speak with Almeyda and were told by the club that he was not available. Had there been any conflict it would have surely been the perfect time to part ways, during the mid-season break and potentially for a small amount of compensation.

One of the possible candidates to takeover from Almeyda is former Banfield defender Javier Sanguinetti but more will become clear after this evening’s match.