A Match Full of Passion and Intrigue
On Sunday, September 6, 2026, River Plate will host Independiente Rivadavia at the iconic Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires, kicking off at 7:15 PM local time. This is a key clash for Matchday 8 of the Torneo Clausura 2026, Argentina's top-flight league. But the big question before the game was whether Maximiliano Salas, a 28-year-old forward on loan from River to the Mendoza-based club, would be eligible to play. The answer came from Independiente Rivadavia's coach, Alfredo Berti, in a press conference that sent ripples through the football world.
“I believe he won't play against River... there was a clause preventing him from playing against River, so we won't waste energy on those issues,” Berti stated.
This confirms that Salas, who rose through River's youth ranks, will not be in the starting lineup or even on the bench for this emotional reunion.
The Controversial Clause in the Loan Agreement
According to reports from El Gráfico, the loan deal between River Plate and Independiente Rivadavia includes a written clause that prohibits Salas from facing his parent club, unless the Mendoza team pays a compensation fee of $500,000. Additionally, there's a verbal agreement between the two clubs to honor this condition. The loan also includes a purchase option set at $4 million for 50% of the player's rights.
This isn't an isolated case in Argentine football. A recent precedent involved Ian Subiabre, who was loaned to Tigre and, during the match against River on August 8, remained on the bench without entering the field, respecting a similar arrangement.
Maximiliano Salas: A Career in the Spotlight
Salas joined River in July 2025 from Racing Club, with the transfer fee set at $9.5 million (his release clause). During his time with the Millonario, he played 37 matches, scored 7 goals, and provided 2 assists. However, before the preseason, he was separated from the squad by club management, leading to his loan to Independiente Rivadavia.
At his new club, Salas has been a starter in all 7 matches played so far, though he hasn't found the back of the net yet. His last goal came in May, while playing for River in the Copa Sudamericana against Blooming.
A Crucial Duel for Both Teams
Sunday's match is vital for both teams' ambitions in the Torneo Clausura. River, led by the legendary Marcelo Gallardo, aims to secure three points to stay in the title race, while Independiente Rivadavia hopes to pull off an upset at the Monumental and earn valuable points to climb away from the relegation zone.
Salas's absence will undoubtedly be a hot topic among fans, but Berti's squad has other offensive weapons to surprise the Millonario. The match promises to be a thrilling encounter, full of strategy and emotion.
Source: El Gráfico