The beginning of the year has brought many surprises to River, but the most shocking news of the new year was the release of Ariel Ortega. While the whole squad reunited for preseason training on January 5th, Ariel Ortega became the only player missing on the training grounds. Without an explanation, Ortega was nowhere to be found. Today, Ortega showed up an hour early before the scheduled practice time and participated with the group. Once practice was over, he had a one-on-one meeting with Coach J.J. Lopez who let him know that he would no longer play in the club. The ‘ups and downs’ of Ortega finally caught up with him, and his playing days at River have come to an unfortunate end.
Ariel Ortega played a total of 10 years with River, battling personal and professional hurdles through each period. His latest controversy was only a few days ago when he was questioned and booked in a jail in his hometown of Jujuy after an altercation in a nightclub. In recent months, his professional career was at stake as poor stamina and skills began to cause a ‘red flag’ with River’s management committee. In addition, battling alcoholism was another factor that affected his performance on the pitch. Ariel Ortega will always be a legend in the club, and the adoration by the fans will always cause furor in the stands for a long period of time.
Despite his struggles, Ariel also left many positive memories for the club. Who doesn’t remember his amazing performance against Boca Juniors in the ‘Superclasico’?! Tricks and lobbies of all sorts dumbfounded Boca’s players, and he was regarded a hero after the match. How about all the goals and assists he contributed to the club throughout all these years?! Or the many times he was part of the Argentine national team, contributing and occasionally scoring against so many nations?!
We wish you the best Ariel, and you will always be welcome in the club.
