Falcioni arrives as new technical director of Atlético Tucumán: the Emperor returns to the bench

Falcioni has been officially appointed as the new head coach of Atlético Tucumán, following a quick negotiation with the management led by Mario Leito. The experienced 69-year-old coach will interrupt his long break to take charge of the decano team at a critical point in the season. This appointment surprised many, especially considering that names like Omar De Felippe, Cristian González, and Daniel Oldrá had been mentioned as candidates for the position.

Why Atlético Tucumán Bet on Falcioni After Colace’s Departure

The management’s decision was driven by the urgent need to act after the team’s poor performance in the Apertura. The heavy 3-1 defeat against Belgrano in Córdoba marked the end of Hugo Colace’s cycle, who had achieved the goal of avoiding relegation for the Tucumán club in the penultimate round of the previous Clausura. However, the start of the new tournament was problematic: the team has one win (4-0 against Estudiantes de Río Cuarto), two draws, and four losses, creating risks in the standings.

Faced with this situation, the management believed that an experienced figure was needed. Falcioni emerged as the most solid option, not only because of his track record but also because of his willingness to continue actively coaching. Although in recent years he had been considered for roles as a sporting director (at institutions like Banfield and Ferro), the former goalkeeper never expressed an intention to leave his coaching role. Despite his last coaching stint being in mid-2024 at his beloved Banfield, the management felt his capabilities justified an immediate bet.

A 25-Year Career: Falcioni’s Trajectory

Falcioni has 25 years of coaching experience in Argentine clubs, making him one of the most versatile coaches in local football. In Argentina, he has managed Vélez, Olimpo, Banfield (five times), Independiente (three times), Colón (twice), Gimnasia y Esgrima La Plata, Boca, All Boys, and Quilmes. He also had a brief international stint managing Universidad Católica in Chile.

Fans describe this new challenge as “a hot iron”, while also appreciating the courage shown in accepting a proposal that other coaches considered difficult. The reception on social media has been mostly positive, with many seeing his arrival as a symbol of institutional commitment during tough times.

Details of the New Project with Falcioni

The new coach will take charge of the squad next week, after the team’s upcoming home match. The interim will be Ramiro González, reserve team coach, for the match against Racing scheduled at 9:15 PM at the José Fierro Monumental Stadium.

Falcioni’s coaching staff will include Omar Piccoli and Leandro Somoza as assistant coaches, while Kenshi Piccoli will handle physical preparation. This structure allows for a smooth transition toward the new project.

Atlético Tucumán thus becomes a new chapter in the Emperor’s career, giving him the opportunity to strengthen his legacy at a time when he seeks to reinforce his leadership after years marked by personal challenges and health issues that always require special attention.