Biography
Who is Américo Gallego?
Early life and career origins
Born in Morteros, Argentina, Américo Gallego moved to Rosario, Santa Fe, when he was five years old. He began his youth football development with the local club Alianza Sport.
His professional debut occurred with Newell's Old Boys when he was 14. By age 19, he became a regular midfielder in the Argentine league during the 1974 season. He quickly earned a starting spot the following year. He also represented Argentina at the 1975 Pan American Games.
Playing career highlights
After several years at Newell's Old Boys, he joined River Plate. He remained with River Plate for seven years. During this period, he served as team captain for significant victories including the 1986 Copa Libertadores, the 1986 Intercontinental Cup, and the 1986 Copa Interamericana.
His international career reached a peak when he helped the Argentina national team win the 1978 FIFA World Cup. He eventually retired from professional play after his time with River Plate. His total career statistics include 440 appearances and 35 goals in the Argentine league.
Coaching in Argentina
Américo Gallego began his coaching career in 1994 when he managed River Plate. His first tournament as head coach resulted in an undefeated championship win. Starting in 1995, he served as an assistant coach for the Argentina national team under Daniel Passarella for three years.
He returned to River Plate in 2000 to win another league title. In 2002, he coached Independiente to a championship, ending an eight-year drought for the club. He returned to Newell's Old Boys in 2004, where he also won a championship. This achievement made him only the second coach to win the Argentine Primera championship with three different clubs.
International coaching success
His reputation for success led to offers from teams in Mexico. He accepted a position with CD Toluca. Despite criticism from the media and fans regarding his defensive style and his choice to bench established players for younger talent, the team won the Apertura 2005 championship. He received the Best Coach award that year.
He resigned from Toluca in 2007. Later, he managed Tigres UANL, though he was dismissed in early 2008 following poor results. In 2009, he returned to Independiente for a stint that lasted until 2010. He also managed the Chilean club Colo-Colo for part of 2011.
Birthday and age
Américo Gallego was born on April 25, 1955, which makes Américo 71 years old today. That birthday falls under the Taurus sign. Américo shares the date with 64 other famous people.
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