Leonardo Astrada

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Lore & Background

Astrada's playing legacy is defined by his longevity and trophy haul at River Plate. Between 1989 and 2003, he secured ten Argentine Primera División titles across various Apertura and Clausura tournaments, including the 1989–90, 1991 Apertura, 1993 Apertura, 1994 Apertura, 1996 Apertura, 1997 Clausura, 1997 Apertura, 1999 Apertura, 2002 Clausura, and 2003 Clausura. His success extended to continental glory with a Copa Libertadores victory in 1996 and a Supercopa Sudamericana triumph in 1997. On the international stage, he earned 32 appearances for Argentina, scoring one goal, and was a key participant at the 1998 FIFA World Cup. His individual excellence was recognized with selections to the South American Team of the Year in both 1991 and 1997. While his primary home was River Plate, he also had a brief stint abroad playing for the Brazilian club Grêmio in the year 2000.

In Their Own Story

In October 2005, Astrada returned to the dugout as manager of Rosario Central, though his tenure was short-lived due to a lack of a good relationship with the board, leading to a quick resignation. He later coached Colón during the 2007–08 season but departed in March 2008. A significant managerial chapter began on 6 October 2009, when River Plate officials re-hired him to replace Néstor Gorosito following a 1–2 defeat against San Lorenzo. This marked his return to the club he previously managed during the 2004–2005 season after retiring in January 2004. His final managerial role saw him sign with Atlético de Rafaela in 2015, where he remained until the end of that season in the Argentinian first division.

Reader's Guide

Astrada's career as a manager began immediately following his retirement in January 2004 when he was appointed by River Plate, holding the position for one and a half years. During this initial stint, he guided the team to win the Argentine Primera División title in the 2004 Clausura tournament. His managerial path also included a brief period with Rosario Central starting in October 2005, followed by coaching duties at Colón during the 2007–08 season until March 2008. In a notable homecoming on 6 October 2009, he returned to River Plate to succeed Néstor Gorosito after a loss to San Lorenzo, having already led the team in the 2004–2005 season. His last known managerial position was with Atlético de Rafaela, where he signed a contract in 2015 that lasted until the end of the season.

Did You Know?

• Astrada made exactly 405 appearances for River Plate across all competitions.
• He was a participant at the 1998 FIFA World Cup with Argentina.
• His only goal for the national team came during his 32 appearances.
• He won the South American Team of the Year award twice, in 1991 and 1997.
• He managed Atlético de Rafaela as his final team before retirement from management.