Who could replace Sebastián Beccacece as Ecuador's coach?

Sebastián Beccacece's time as the head coach of the Ecuador national football team is likely over, following their elimination from the 2026 World Cup. Although the Ecuadorian Football Federation (FEF) has not officially announced his departure, indications point to the Argentine coach concluding his role after the team's exit in the round of 16 against Mexico. Beccacece himself confirmed after the match that his contract was set to end with Ecuador's participation in the World Cup. "We could not achieve the feat we promised, which was to have the best World Cup in our history. For that reason, and because of the responsibility I carry, my contract ended once the World Cup concluded, and the World Cup ended for Ecuador," he stated. These remarks signal the end of his cycle and necessitate the FEF's search for a new national team manager. During his nearly two-year tenure, Beccacece managed Ecuador in 24 matches, achieving 9 victories, 12 draws, and 3 defeats. This record translates to a 54.17% performance rate, with the team scoring 22 goals and conceding 12. However, two of those three losses occurred during the 2026 World Cup, a tournament where Ecuador was eliminated in the round of 16. With Beccacece's departure imminent, speculation about his successor has begun. While the FEF has not publicly initiated its search, several renowned coaches currently without teams could be considered. Potential candidates include Marcelo Gallardo, known for his intense, possession-based style at River Plate; Marcelo Bielsa, an influential figure in modern football with experience managing national teams like Argentina and Uruguay; Jürgen Klinsmann, who has coached Germany, the USA, and South Korea; Hernán Crespo, who favors offensive football; and Gustavo Costas, a coach with extensive experience in South America.

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We could not achieve the feat we promised, which was to have the best World Cup in our history. For that reason, and because of the responsibility I carry, my contract ended once the World Cup concluded, and the World Cup ended for Ecuador.