Thiago Almada is now one of the biggest names at River Plate as the club aims to fight for every title. The attacking midfielder, who became the most expensive signing in the history of Argentine football, officially debuted with the Millonarios and delivered a promising performance: he played 83 minutes, assisted Gonzalo Montiel for the first goal, and played a key role in the second that sealed a 2-0 victory over Argentinos Juniors. This also marked the first win of the semester for coach Eduardo Coudet.
After the final whistle, Almada spoke to ESPN and emphasized the team effort: “The most important thing is the victory of the team, how we played today. I'm very happy. At times we played well, at times we had to defend. Argentinos is a team that plays very good football. We took advantage of the chances and made a great game. We have things to improve, but what mattered today was winning.”
The Key Calls That Convinced Him
In a chat with TNT Sports, the ex-Vélez Sarsfield player revealed how he returned to Argentine football, after a spell at Atlético Madrid which River paid 20 million euros to release him in this transfer window.
“The messages from the Chacho (Coudet) were really key, as well as the president's calls (Stefano Di Carlo), my family, my wife… it was a joint decision. I am truly happy about the decision I made.” Said the World Cup champion from Qatar 2022.
He also shared that Nicolás Otamendi and Ángel Correa, his Argentina national teammates, also pushed for him to come: “On Monday Otamendi called me and said: 'Don't think about it, come, I'm also about to sign.'” – said the No. 23.
Coudet, who had admitted his insistence in signing the player, celebrated his arrival: “Thiago is a special player, with class. We know that in Argentine football, players like him make the difference.” – he said in the press conference.
A Multitude That Never Stops Cheering
The Monumental once again looked like a final. Despite the team’s recent struggles, the fans packed the stadium and supported from start to finish. Almada paid tribute to them: “It was incredible. I've played several times on this field and it always went well. I thank the people because even though results weren't coming, the stands were full and they cheered for 90 minutes. I'm very happy and grateful to be here.”
“Vamos River”: A Viral Post
The midfielder also celebrated on social media: “Very happy for my debut with this shirt. How beautiful to play in this stadium… this is the path to follow. Let’s go River.” – wrote on Instagram, sharing photos from the match, a hug with Correa and a picture with his uncle Nicolás Alejandro Ruíz, who played in River’s youth divisions.
The Copa Sudamericana Challenge
Coudet’s side now prepares for the Copa Sudamericana: on August 19, 2026, at 9:30 PM (Argentina time) they will visit Independiente Santa Fe in Bogotá for the first leg of the round of 16. The match had originally been postponed due to the earthquake that struck Colombia.
Los Millonarios arrive with strengthened spirits after beating Argentinos, which ended a six‑game winless streak. The return leg will be on August 26 at Monumental.
The Sunday victory also gave River the first step in leaving behind the crisis that worried them over recent weeks. The Almada‑Correa partnership, two World Cup champions with Argentina, excites a fanbase that is now dreaming big again.