A River Plate Homecoming: Lucas Martínez Quarta Returns to Fulfill a Lifelong Dream
After four and a half years in Italy, Lucas Martínez Quarta, affectionately known as ”El Chino,” is returning to his beloved River Plate. this move marks a triumphant homecoming for the 28-year-old defender, who has long expressed his desire to wear the iconic red and white stripes again.
Martínez Quarta’s departure from Fiorentina was marked by an emotional farewell. During an open training session, the vice-captain bid adieu to his teammates and the club’s staff, receiving a standing ovation from the Viola faithful. His dedication and performance during his time in Florence earned him the respect and admiration of fans and colleagues alike.
This transfer comes as a major coup for River Plate manager Marcelo Gallardo, who prioritized strengthening his defense.Martínez Quarta will reunite with former teammate Germán Pezzella,forming a formidable partnership at the heart of the River Plate backline.
The deal, reportedly worth €7 million, sees Martínez Quarta return to the club where his passion for football first ignited. This move represents a second chance for the defender, whose previous attempt to rejoin River Plate under Martín Demichelis was unsuccessful.
Martínez Quarta’s return is not just a personal triumph but a meaningful boost for River Plate’s ambitions. With the Copa Libertadores and the Club world cup on the horizon, the defender’s experience and leadership will be invaluable assets as the team strives for glory.
The Argentine football world eagerly awaits Martínez Quarta’s return to the pitch, where he is expected to make an immediate impact and contribute to River Plate’s pursuit of silverware.
Martínez Quarta Returns: A Hometown Hero Returns to River Plate
Welcome back to the “Football Faithful” podcast, where we dissect the big moves in the gorgeous game. Today, we are joined by a legend of Argentine football, former River Plate and national team star, Daniel ‘El Diablo’ Bravo.
Daniel, welcome to the show!
Daniel Bravo: Thanks for having me. Always a pleasure to talk football.
Perfect timing, as we have a huge story to discuss. Lucas Martínez quarta,affectionately known as ‘El Chino’,is back at River Plate after four and a half years in Italy with Fiorentina. This is a move that’s been years in the making. What are your thoughts, Daniel, on this long-awaited homecoming?
Daniel Bravo: It’s fantastic news for River Plate. This kid, Martínez Quarta, has always bled red and white. He’s a local kid, came up through the youth ranks, and his passion for the club is undeniable. To see him finally back,after that almost disastrous stint with Demichelis,where he was practically frozen out,is a triumph. I always believed gallardo would be the one to bring him home, and here we are.
Absolutely. And seems like Gallardo prioritized strengthening the defense,and Martínez Quarta,reuniting with his old teammate germán Pezzella,could form a formidable pairing. How notable is this move for River Plate’s ambitions this season?
Daniel bravo: Huge. This isn’t just nostalgia. El Chino brings back experience, European know-how, and a winning mentality. Remember, he was Fiorentina vice-captain. He knows how to lead. Think about it, Copa Libertadores, and the Club World Cup are on the horizon. Gallardo has assembled a squad that can compete with anyone, and Martínez Quarta is a key piece of that puzzle.
Some fans have questioned the €7 million price tag. Is that a fair price for a player returning to his boyhood club?
Daniel Bravo: I understand the debate. He’s not a spring chicken anymore,but €7 million for a defender with his pedigree,who already knows the club and the pressure cooker atmosphere of El Monumental,is a steal. You’re not just buying a player, you’re buying a leader, a fan favorite, a symbol of River Plate’s history and ambition. That’s priceless.
Great points, Daniel. Martínez Quarta’s return has generated a lot of buzz among River Plate fans. What’s your message to those who are eagerly awaiting his return to the pitch?
Daniel Bravo: Be patient. There’s going to be a settling-in period. Four years in a different league changes a player.But don’t doubt him. ‘El Chino’ is back home where he belongs. And when he steps into El Monumental in that iconic red and white shirt, expect nothing less than fireworks.
We’d love to hear from you, our listeners! What are your thoughts on Martínez Quarta’s return to River Plate? Do you think he’ll live up to the hype? Let us know in the comments below!
