Platense Fires Coach Walter Zunino Ahead of Copa Libertadores Round of 16

Club Atlético Platense has announced the departure of head coach Walter Zunino by mutual agreement. The decision comes just seven days before the team is scheduled to play the first leg of the Copa Libertadores round of 16 against Coquimbo Unido on August 12. The firing follows a 4-0 defeat against Talleres, a result that intensified a sporting crisis for the club. Zunino, who took over in November 2025, managed 28 matches across various competitions. During the current season, the team has earned 17 points in 19 domestic appearances, making them the fourth worst team of the season.

The match against Talleres was marked by significant tension. Fans chanted against the players and the barra brava climbed the fencing. Captain Ignacio Vázquez had to be restrained by security when he attempted to confront spectators who had allegedly insulted his mother. In a statement following his exit, Zunino mentioned that some people seek disturbances for their own benefit, though he emphasized his lifelong bond with the club and his willingness to step down if the leadership deemed it necessary.

Platense is now considering several candidates for the vacancy. While Gustavo Costas rejected a return, the club is looking at Martín Palermo, Omar De Felippe, or the duo of Favio Orsi and Sergio Gómez. The club faces a demanding schedule including a match against Independiente on Saturday and a game against Boca Juniors on August 15, situated between the two legs of the continental tie against Coquimbo Unido.