Marcelo Gallardo rejects Fluminense offer amid Ecuador national team interest

Argentine coach Marcelo Gallardo has reportedly turned down an offer from Brazilian club Fluminense, amidst strong interest from the Ecuadorian national football team. Gallardo, who previously coached River Plate, is a highly sought-after figure in South American football.

Fluminense approached Gallardo following the departure of their technical staff after a Copa Libertadores match. However, according to reports, Gallardo communicated his current disinterest in managing any Brazilian club at this time. This decision came on the same day that Luis Zubeldía's coaching staff left Fluminense.

Meanwhile, the Ecuadorian Football Federation (FEF) has identified Gallardo as a key candidate to lead their national team, the 'Tri'. FEF president Francisco Egas has reportedly met with Gallardo to discuss the possibility. Gallardo is not the only name being considered, as the FEF has been in contact with several coaching staffs, with Egas spearheading the approaches.

Ecuador is seeking a new head coach after Sebastián Beccacece left the squad following their elimination from the World Cup. The FEF aims to have a new manager in place by the end of August, ideally in time to lead the team in the September and October FIFA international windows. The team is scheduled to play South Korea on September 24, 2026, followed by the Kirin Cup where they will face Japan on October 1.