Newell’s have undergone a swift change in manager as the club battles to solve an on-field crisis that has resulted in one of the worst season’s in recent memory.
The club officially announced that Sebastián Méndez has left his position as head coach, with Ricardo Lunari stepping in as the interim manager.
Méndez’s Departure
Sebastián Méndez’s tenure at Newell’s came to an abrupt end after just ten matches in charge. His departure follows a crushing 3-0 defeat against Argentinos Juniors, which marked the team’s eighth consecutive game without a win in the Liga Profesional. Méndez’s brief spell saw only one victory, four draws, and four losses in the league, coupled with an elimination from the Copa Argentina.
The club’s statement on social media was succinct: “Club Atlético Newell’s Old Boys informs that Sebastián Méndez is no longer the technical director of the first team.”
Lunari’s Appointment
In a swift move, the Newell’s board has appointed Ricardo Lunari as the new head coach until the end of the year. Lunari, who was previously in charge of the club’s reserve team, brings a wealth of experience and a deep connection to Newell’s.
This isn’t Lunari’s first stint with the senior team. In 2014, he briefly served as interim manager for seven matches, achieving three wins, two draws, and two losses. His history with the club also includes a role as an assistant coach in the 2008 season.
Looking Ahead
Lunari’s first challenge will be to prepare the team for their upcoming match against Tigre on Saturday, September 21, at the Estadio Marcelo Bielsa. The new manager will be tasked with turning around the team’s fortunes and improving their position in the league table.
Club president Ignacio Astore had previously hinted at Lunari’s potential, stating last month that he “will surely have an opportunity at Newell’s as a first-team coach because he is doing a great job in the reserves.”
As Newell’s Old Boys enters this new chapter, fans will be hoping that Lunari can breathe new life into the team and steer them towards a more successful run in the remainder of the season.
