Argentine football is gearing up for a match with a special flavor: River Plate will host Independiente Rivadavia this Sunday at 7:15 PM at the Monumental Stadium, as part of Matchday 8 of the 2026 Clausura Tournament. But beyond the game itself, all eyes are on one name: Maximiliano Salas, a 28-year-old forward who belongs to River and is currently playing for the Mendoza-based team on loan.
The news came from Independiente Rivadavia's own coach, Alfredo Berti, in a press conference: “I believe he won't play against River; the directors haven't told me anything. At the time, they told me there was a clause so he wouldn't play against River, so we won't waste energy on matters that don't concern coaches.” These statements set off alarms and reignited controversy over a common practice in Argentine football: the so-called anti-River clauses or non-participation clauses.
What Does the Clause Say?
According to El Gráfico, the agreement between River and Independiente Rivadavia includes a specific clause stating that if the Mendoza club wants Salas to play against River, they must pay 500,000 US dollars to River. Additionally, there is a verbal and written agreement for the striker not to be used in that match, with an additional financial compensation if he is used.
Salas's loan was made at no cost and includes a purchase option of 4 million US dollars for 50% of the player's rights. This model is increasingly common in Argentine football, where clubs seek to protect their economic and sporting interests.
Salas's History at River
Maximiliano Salas arrived at River in July 2025 from Racing, for 9.5 million US dollars (release clause). During his time at the Núñez club, he played 37 matches, scored 7 goals, and provided 2 assists. However, his performance didn't fully convince, and he was left out of the squad after the Apertura Tournament, leading to his loan move.
At Independiente Rivadavia, Salas has become an undisputed starter since his arrival: he has played 7 matches in the local tournament, though he hasn't scored yet. His last goal was in May 2026, in a victory against Blooming in the Copa Sudamericana.
A Recent Precedent: The Subiabre Case
This situation isn't new in Argentine football. A similar case occurred with Ian Subiabre, a young River forward loaned to Tigre, who also had a non-participation clause. In the match between Tigre and River (which ended 1-0 in favor of River), Subiabre was on the bench but didn't get any minutes, respecting the agreement.
These types of clauses spark debate: some consider them a lack of sports ethics, while others see them as a legitimate negotiation tool between clubs.
The Context: A Monumental That Promises
Sunday's match will be special for Salas, who was criticized by River fans in his final matches at the club. The Monumental Stadium will have nearly 85,000 spectators, an imposing setting for a match that promises strong emotions.
Meanwhile, at Independiente Rivadavia, Berti's coaching staff will have to define their strategy without their top scorer, at least in theory. The question remains open: will the Mendoza club pay the 500,000 US dollars for Salas to play? Or will they respect the agreement and keep him on the bench?
What's certain is that this saga has all the ingredients: money, clauses, a player in the spotlight, and a match that could shape the course of both teams in the tournament. On Sunday, the Monumental will witness a story that goes beyond football.