Marcelo Gallardo has agreed to become the new head coach of the Ecuador national football team, signing a contract through the 2030 FIFA World Cup according to reports confirmed by multiple outlets. The agreement between Gallardo and the Federación Ecuatoriana de Fútbol (FEF) secures the former River Plate manager to lead La Tri through the upcoming qualification cycle and the 2028 Copa América.
Contract Terms and Financial Agreement
The Argentine coach is set to earn an annual salary of 3.5 million dollars, making his compensation the second-highest among South American national team managers, trailing only Brazil boss Carlo Ancelotti.
The negotiations reached a successful conclusion after extensive talks between Gallardo’s representatives and FEF leadership. Journalist César Luis Merlo reported that both sporting and economic terms are fully resolved, leaving only formal administrative steps before the official announcement. Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano also confirmed the development on social media.
Coaching Staff and Upcoming Schedule
The formal contract signing is scheduled for the upcoming week, followed immediately by an official presentation in Ecuador.
La Tri’s new technical team will step directly into a demanding international window. Ecuador’s upcoming schedule features an Asian tour in late September and early October. Gallardo is expected to make his debut on the sideline against South Korea on September 24, followed by a match against Japan on October 1, and a third fixture scheduled for October 5.
Context and Next Steps
Gallardo takes over the technical director role following the departure of Sebastián Beccacece. The FEF moved quickly to secure the high-profile Argentine manager to stabilize the squad and direct preparations for the 2030 World Cup cycle. Official confirmation and squad announcements are expected from the federation once the final paperwork is completed next week.
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