The latest River backup players were introduced officially after each of them signed their respective contracts. Once all the details were formalized at the presidential office, the players made their way to the multi-purpose room (MPR) alongside Rodolfo D’Onofrio and Marcelo Gallardo.

Jonatan Maidana, David Martínez, Agustín Palavecino, José Paradela, Agustín Fontana, and Alex Vigo wore the colors of the “holy robe”. The President of the Club said, “We introduce you to a very young group of players and it’s an honor to have Joni on board. I want to thank Marcelo, Enzo, and the authorities that have accompanied us.”

Then, the coach of the professional team highlighted the project and the effort the Club made to bring the players on board: “I wish each and every one of them all the best. They have to join a group that already has a very clear idea on mind and that makes things easier; they will eventually settle in and we will accompany them in the process.”

Maidana commented: “I hoped and dreamed of returning to the Club where I had been so happy. I trust in what I can bring to the table and I am aware that I have been given the chance to return, I have to train every day and I hope that this group can maintain its high level of performance.”

Vigo said, “Being here is such a joy and I’m very thankful to all of you.” For his part, Martínez said, “I was part of this project before joining Defensa y Justicia, so I already knew what the work and training was like.” Furthermore, Paradela praised Nacho Fernández: “We all know who he is and the career he has built here. I hope I can achieve at least part of what he has achieved, and I’m very happy to be here.”

Fontana, another one of the backups, talked about the comparison with Rafael Borré: “For me, it’s an honor to play similarly to Rafa.” Palavecino, who comes from Colombia, stated: “I’m very happy and glad, I’m patiently waiting for my chance to play. I’ll make my contribution to the team.”

Lastly, answering the last question of the conference, Marcelo Gallardo explained what River means to him: “I took my first steps in this Institution back in 1988, I walked through this Club for a long time, so when I look back a bit, I realize that I’ve spent most of my life here. Therefore, River means that kind of commitment, there is no other way of being in this place and experiencing it than enjoying it to the fullest.”