Gallardo’s Three Surprising Picks in Squad Roster for Match Against Sarmiento
After Saturday’s evening training, Marcelo Gallardo finalized his squad for the Sunday match against Sarmiento. Scheduled at 19:15, the game will take place at Estadio Monumental, as part of the Clausura 2025’s twelfth round.
Gallardo’s Three Surprising Picks in Squad Roster for Match Against Sarmiento
For this critical encounter, Gallardo has made surprising changes, picking three reserve players for their first-team debut. Franco Jaroszewicz, Lisandro Bajú, and Cristian Jaime have been called up from Marcelo Escudero’s reserve team. These selections come mostly due to several key players’ absences.
Reasons Behind the Call-Ups
- Six players were selected for national teams.
- Juan Portillo faces suspension.
- Various injuries affected squad depth.
Player Profiles and Roles
| Player | Position | Reason for Selection |
|---|---|---|
| Franco Jaroszewicz | Goalkeeper | Replaces injured Jeremías Ledesma. |
| Lisandro Bajú | Left-Back | Backup to Milton Casco; fills in for Marcos Acuña |
| Cristian Jaime | Midfielder | Recently signed first professional contract. |
The 18-year-old Jaroszewicz enters the lineup due to Ledesma’s injury. Despite not being the usual starter for the reserves, the absence of Santiago Beltrán offers him a chance as Franco Armani’s backup.
Meanwhile, Lisandro Bajú, a 20-year-old left-back, will initially serve as a substitute. He will cover for Milton Casco, who fills the gap left by Marcos Acuña’s departure to North America for the FIFA fixtures.
Cristian Jaime, aged 19, is set for his first-team experience after signing a professional contract lasting until December 31, 2028, with a €100 million release clause. His prior opportunity was missed due to contract issues before the match against Tucumán.
Additional Call-Ups
Agustín Obregón and Thiago Acosta received their second call-up, having both participated in the recent loss against Atlético Tucumán. Although both players were part of the squad, only Acosta featured on the field.
The complete roster is enthusiastically poised to tackle the upcoming challenge against Sarmiento, as River seeks to leverage every player’s potential.
