River Fans React as Lanzini Celebrates super Cup Win with Vélez, Airs Past Grievances
Buenos Aires, Argentina - Manuel Lanzini’s triumphant return to Argentine football with Vélez Sarsfield culminated in a Super Cup victory over Central Córdoba on September 6, 2025, but the celebration was accompanied by pointed remarks about his departure from River Plate, igniting a backlash from supporters of his former club. Lanzini, who joined Vélez weeks prior, scored twice in the 2-0 win, adding fuel to the fire with post-match comments referencing “months of great uncertainty” and an unexpected situation at River.
The win marks a swift success for Vélez, who have strategically acquired several former River players, including Lanzini, Rodrigo Aliendro, Elías Gómez, braian Romero, and Emanuel Mammana. However, Lanzini’s veiled criticism of his time at River – specifically omitting a thank you to former coach Marcelo Gallardo in a recent social media farewell – and subsequent statements have reopened old wounds with the River faithful. The situation highlights the frequently enough-contentious relationship between players and clubs in Argentine football, and the lingering impact of perceived slights.”They were months of great uncertainty, I had to live a moment that I did not expect but everything has its reward,” Lanzini told ESPN after the match. This statement, coupled with his prior social media omission of Gallardo, has been interpreted by River fans as a sign of disrespect.
River supporters have taken to social media to express their disappointment, citing lanzini’s perceived underperformance during his second stint with the club, particularly referencing his performance in the Superclásico against Boca Juniors. They also point to reports of Gallardo himself questioning the need to renew Lanzini’s contract.
Vélez,simultaneously occurring,is reveling in its success,with the club’s official Twitter account celebrating the championship and highlighting the contributions of Lanzini and Aliendro with the hashtag “19⭐️” referencing the club’s league titles. The Super Cup win provides a significant boost for Vélez as they look to build a competitive squad for the upcoming season.
