Alaves coach Chacho Kudai has done his best to quash speculation that he could take over at River Plate this week. The Argentinian coach is considered the favorite for the job after Marcelo Gallardo stepped down at the Estadio Monument this week.
Earlier this week, several major media outlets in Argentina reported that Kudai had reached an agreement with River Plate, with the Argentinian giants now preparing to hold talks with Glarizo. In an interview with Diario AS on Thursday, Coudet did his best to deal with things naturally.
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“When an institution like River Plate comes along, just like Real Madrid or Barcelona are looking for a coach, there is a huge response and to be included in the shortlist of candidates is a compliment and an honour.”
“No one has contacted me or my agent” – Coudet
However, Kudai was keen to make his position on the matter clear, explaining that for him it was a moot point.
“No one has contacted me or my agent; I am away from all the noise. They are going through a special period because they are saying goodbye to one of the most important coaches in River Plate’s history. It is a natural situation to be on the shortlist, but nothing more.”
“I have four children and I can swear to the four of them that no one from River Plate has contacted me or my agent. I don’t think about what will happen if they call, but if I am 6 feet 3 inches tall and have a perfect shot, I will be outstanding. ‘Maybe’ or ‘could’ does not exist. I also said we should have more points, but I called the Spanish Football Federation and they told me they will not give it back to me. That’s it. I’m focused.”
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Alaves in strong position in negotiations
Despite Kudai’s strong commitment, Cadena Ser said Alaves suspected he was indeed negotiating with River Plate through an intermediary before informing the club. Los Babazolos have also not received any contact from River Plate, but there is no release clause in his contract, so the two clubs must negotiate for him, which puts Alaves in a strong position.
Losing Kudai would come at an inopportune moment, with Alaves locked in a relegation battle and just three points away from relegation. They will also face 19th-placed Levante this weekend, with the two sides drawing.