The Gallardo statue: complaints, praise and chicanes from the River fans who come towards it

The sun peeks out from the side and with its rays illuminates the statue of Marcellus Gallardo. It is noon on Thursday 1 June and since Saturday 27 May the bronze mass 8.10 meters high and weighing almost 7 tons has been uncovered in front of Avenida Figueroa Alcorta, next to the entrance to the club car park and a few steps from the entrance to the Monumental, the River Museum and the other great monument, that of the Angel Labruna.

the statue of Doll it is behind a fence with picket fences and will be more protected when the glass front is ready. In any case, it is guarded 24 hours a day by the club’s private security agents. A few meters away is a stall selling River Plate produce that next week you will have the miniature statue in stock. Its owner assures that many people have already asked about the mini doll.

Along the wide sidewalk, people walk calmly. Fans and members of the river, but also of other clubs, tourists and onlookers. Cyclists pass on the cycle path. And the cars that travel along the avenue slow down and brake. Everyone stops to look and contemplate the figure of the Doll. For taking photos and selfies. For filming videos. As if they were observing Michelangelo’s David.

In the same melody it is expressed, Rodrigotwenty-year-old from Parque Leloir. “I’ve seen it in videos and now seeing it in person, it feels like it wasn’t necessary. It would be nice if it was modified because it doesn’t go with the principles of the club”said, while specifying: “I’m still happy for Doll, for everything he’s given us, he’s the best manager in River’s history and he deserved a statue.”

That statue whose idea was born on 8 December 2018, one day before the Copa Libertadores final against Boca in Madrid, and which began to be created after the epic triumph at the Bernabéu.

Right at the foot of the Monument, the rivalry that exists in every part of the town between two friends who are passing through the Monumental is revived, with great folkloric sense.

–The Doll monument is perfect, nothing needs to be changed– He says givinga missionary who took advantage of his stay in Buenos Aires to go to the Museum and see the statue.

–I am a bostero and the truth is that the statue is good, it has what it should have– admits, resigned, Francisco59 years old, accompanying his friend.

–And look up, he’s got the Cup we won for you-, spear Dante.

And a round trip between the two is armed with pure chicana and good vibes.

“Too much Argentinian”assures, between laughter and blush, Catherineof Pilar, as he looks in amazement at the statue.