The first major domino of the Ignacio Boero era has fallen, and it has landed with a resounding statement of intent. Just days after sweeping the polls in a historic election, the new administration has wasted no time in securing their primary targets for the dugout. Newell’s Old Boys officially announced on Friday that Favio Orsi and Sergio Gómez have been appointed as the club’s new head coaches, signing a contract that binds them to the Lepra until December 2026.
This appointment is not merely a box-ticking exercise; it is a calculated move masterminded by the new Director of Football, Roberto Sensini. It is understood that Sensini, working in tandem with Boero, had identified the duo as the ideal candidates long before the ballots were cast. Indeed, reports confirm that Sensini met with the pair two weeks ago to outline his vision, ensuring that the new regime could hit the ground running immediately after taking office.
For the fans, the arrival of Orsi and Gómez offers a tangible reason for optimism after a decade of underachievement. The pair arrive at the Estadio Marcelo Bielsa with their stock at an all-time high, having orchestrated one of the most remarkable underdog stories in recent Argentine football history. Only six months ago, they led Platense to a stunning Apertura title, dispatching giants like Racing, River Plate, and San Lorenzo on their way to defeating Huracán in the final.
Their sudden departure from Platense just ten days after lifting the trophy, citing “wear and tear” with that club’s hierarchy, speaks to their integrity and high standards. They chose to sit out the last six months rather than compromise their principles, a trait that aligns perfectly with the transparency and “honest work” promised by President Boero during his campaign.
“We are here to build a competitive team that reflects the history of this club,” the duo said during their presentation at the Jorge Griffa Training Centre on Friday. Their mandate is clear: reconstruction. The official club statement highlighted their reputation for “tactical order” and “maximising resources,” qualities that will be essential as they look to turn a squad drained of confidence into a cohesive unit.
The new technical staff is already in place. Orsi and Gómez will be assisted by Gonzalo Gil and César Zinelli, with Ricardo Somma and Francisco Giuliano taking charge of fitness duties. Pablo Orsi joins as technical secretary. There is no time for a honeymoon period; the team held their first training session under the new regime on Friday afternoon.
The clock is already ticking towards the season opener. The new managers have just 35 days to instill their philosophy before facing a stern test against Talleres at the Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes. It is a baptism of fire, but for a duo that specialises in upsetting the odds, it is exactly the kind of challenge they relish.
Sensini has delivered his first big win. Boero has kept his first big promise. Now, it is up to Orsi and Gómez to ensure that the optimism sweeping through the red and black half of Rosario is translated into points on the board. The work begins now.
